Great, great new japanese instrumental band
by catspoet
I got turned onto Lite by Mike Watt who recently toured with them in their native Japan. I am simply blown away by their music. This album is well put together and remarkably mature for a young band. While there are some artists that could be influential on their sound, Lite are a wholly original group. The songs cover a wide dynamic and sonic range with a blend of emotional perspectives. In an interview these guys said that since they have no lyrics they view their songs as little film stories. Anyone with half an imagination can sit back and listen to these stories and completely enjoy them. It might be too easy, and remarkably inaccurate, to compare one band with others who came before but just for the sake of context I would say anyone who enjoys King Crimson, old Rush or more obscure groups like Captain Beyond should check them out. Also, later, punk-influenced bands like Gone and Alter Natives come to mind at times. But again, Lite are entirely original and unique. I hope they come tour the States soon. I've heard some liver recordings of them from Ireland and it's impressive. Also check out their "twofer" with Funanori.
