関根真理= Mari Sekine

'Beginning' is, appropriately enough, the world-wide solo debut by Japanese percussionist Mari Sekine. She has been active since 2000 with numerous groups and artists, as well as providing music for the theatre. This latter experience is particularly in evidence throughout this piece, with its dramatic shifts and changing scenery, forming a very visual and evocative music with over fifteen percussion instruments entering and leaving the stage in their various roles. Sekine's voice also takes a turn as a hauntingly benevolent melodic ghost. Fans of Midori Takada will find much to enjoy here, and her use of a wide range of instruments evokes Nana Vasconcelos. The propulsive rhythms and melodies will please admirers of Balearic grooves, Steve Reich and Roland P. Young. Also on offer here is a funky remix by German DJ/producer Lena Willikens, accentuating the tribal elements inherent in the original.