Kadura-1997-From The Depths Of The Other Space(Charnel Music)/Psychedelic Rock

Charnel Music's interest in the Japanese alternative scene has resulted in some interesting releases, three of which are reviewed here. A cruise through the label's web page offers multiple links to Japanese music sites. When asked about this focus on Japanese music Charnel's Mason Jones said:

"I've become very intimately linked to the Japanese indie music scene over the years. It's a connection that came about purely by accident, but after my first, somewhat accidental, tour over there with a friend's performance group, I felt an immediate bond with the place and the people there. Over the years I've released a fair amount of Japanese music on the label, and have toured over there four times doing collaborative experimental music. I also publish the magazine Ongaku Otaku ('music maniac'), which is devoted to independent Japanese music of all kinds (noise, psych, punk, etc)."

Kadura plays a droning psychedelia with some Middle Eastern influences and even a hint of Can-type Krautrock. A 5-piece consisting of two guitars, zurna (double-reed horn), bass, a-synth, drum, percussion, and vocals, they reminded me of Spacious Mind though considerably harsher. Wonderfully pulsating, moaning guitars with plenty of reverb, the music is dreamy but intense. The vocals consist mostly of eerie chanting. They fit the music well, but aren't so ubiquitous as to become annoying. My favorite tune on the disc is "Move". The song opens with a 'call to prayer'-sounding horn which is joined by somewhat traditional Japanese drumming. The pace increases gradually and the vocals are far more intense than on other tracks. The guitar plays slowly in the background while the horns wail in competition with the drums. The whole thing has an easy going intensity made all the more so by the manic vocals. Another standout track is "Alyster" which is ten minutes of great guitar freakout music. Sonically emotional, this is real lava lamp stuff.