Mandala symphony product reviews

Dark, moody, avant garde could be some words used to describe the compositions from Mayuzumi. It is certainly an interesting release. I was unfamiliar with Japanese composers generally, let alone those writing for ballet and orchestral compositions - now Naxos have filled that gap.

The music is unfamiliar to those who listen to more conventional compositions from western composers, and it will take some getting used to before one can get the full benefit and experiance from this music and this composer, and indeed, he is barely known in the west, so for most, getting aquainted with Mayuzumi will be a new exeriance.

The music is bright and clear and abley performed by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestraton of under the baton of fellow country man, Takuo Yuasa, who not only present an interpretation of Mayuzumi's work, but two new releases that have never before been recorded and a third that is unknown in the west.

The style will take some getting used to for those who are ffamiliar with most western composers, but repeated listening will yeild great pleasures as one finds greater depth to be explored whilst listening to any of Mayuzumi's work. This is one CD that deserves to be played again and again and I guarentee hours of pleasure will be had from this CD.

If you are unfamiliar with any Japanese composers or any orchestral work written by Japanese, buy this. You will be in for a real treat.