Kenji Niinuma - 北の故郷

Review by Ryan Smith

Kenji Niinuma's album, 北の故郷, is a beautiful and emotive collection of traditional Japanese folk songs. The album showcases Niinuma's exceptional skill on the shamisen, a three-stringed instrument traditionally used in Japanese folk music.

The album begins with the hauntingly beautiful track "Mukashi no Machi," which sets the tone for the rest of the album. Niinuma's playing is delicate and precise, and he brings a sense of reverence to each track.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Kita no Yado," which features Niinuma's vocals alongside his shamisen playing. The song tells the story of a traveler seeking shelter in the north, and Niinuma's voice adds an extra layer of emotion to the already moving lyrics.

Throughout the album, Niinuma's playing is accompanied by other traditional Japanese instruments, such as the shakuhachi and the koto. The interplay between these instruments creates a rich and layered sound that transports the listener to another time and place.

Summary by Ryan Smith

北の故郷 is a stunning album that showcases the beauty and depth of traditional Japanese folk music. Niinuma's skill on the shamisen is unparalleled, and his passion for these songs shines through in every note. This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in Japanese music or folk music in general.