Three instruments. Three “movements.” Before arriving to Japan, I made plans to join shamisen musician Yutaka Oyama for a gig and recording session. Covid-19 canceled our gig, but thankfully we were still able to record. Akihito Obama joined us on shakuhachi (bamboo flute) and we made some magical moments.
Amrit Khanjira, master of the khanjira, an Indian percussion instrument from the Carnatic (South Indian Classical) tradition gave me a lot to think about, and practice. I came away with great new rhythmic concepts, and we put the American old-time tune “Garfield’s Blackberry” through the paces…reinterpreting in 5 different time signatures.
