Yoshida Brothers August 11, 2010

The Yoshida Brothers, Japan's young masters of the ancient tsugaru-shamisen, are back with a new album, Prism. The aptly-named release reflects their long-standing commitment to traditional Japanese folk music, refracted through modern musical sensibilities, incorporating elements of pop, rock, and world music sounds.

In their relatively short professional lives, the Yoshida Brothers have had quite an impact on the modern music landscape. The Hokkaido-born brothers Ryoichiro and Kenichi Yoshida have become recognized masters of their signature instrument, the tsugaru-shamisen. Originating in China in the 16th Century, the three-stringed instrument found its way to Japan through traveling folk musicians and became an integral element of Japanese classical music. The Yoshida Brothers have now taken the tsugaru-shamisen further than any other modern musician, practically reinventing its sound, leading to a musical style both firmly rooted in the traditions of the past and boldly looking forward to the future.

In another recording and marriage of modern and traditional sounds, Prism is evidence that the Yoshida Brothers continue to push boundaries in their pursuit of musical exploration, constantly redefining the sound of the shamisen and how it can be fused into new, unique soundscapes.

Official Website: http://www.yoshis.com/sanfrancisco/jazzclub/artist/show/1383