Words, photos and videos by Andrea
On Monday, October 7th I attended to Sachiko Kanenobu's closing show in NYC at Le Poisson Rouge with featuring guests Mind Maintenance and Laraaji.
I discovered her music not too long ago through Makoto Kubota (Les Rallizes Dénudés, Sunset Gang) who produced and mastered her recent LP release "Fork in the Road" through California-based label, Temporal Drift and Tuff Beats (Japan). Although it was originally arranged by Sachiko in the 1970s and early 1980s. This special release brings a whole new brilliance to the album. Sachiko Kanenobu is often recognized as Japan's pioneer female singer-songwriter, who is best known her 1972 album "Misora" which is considered a classic of Japanese folk music. Sachiko's sounds represents timeless classics featuring intricate finger-picking, gentle, and lovely melodies with a unique rustic feel. This is exactly what she offered in her live performace.
Mind Maintenance, a Chicago-based duo, kicked off the show with Joshua Abrams on the guimbri and Chad Taylor on the mbira. They provided a mesmerizing and intimate performance, captivating the audience, who remained reserved and attentive as they listened to the duo's entrancing sounds. I was thrilled to discover their music for the first time during a live show.
The following act, New York based Laraaji, a mystic musician, and laughter meditation practitioner offered a serene performance that enchanted the audience through his use of autoharp while incorporating a range of electronic effects. In his orange garb, Laraaji conjured a sunset's embrace. His table adorned with an ethereal orange cloth, and the golden stage lights emulating like a sun's tender glow washing over him. I marveled at how seamlessly this scene harmonized with his tranquil melodies, drawing me in completely. I couldn't help but become one with it. As his performance unfolded, I observed a serene smile gracing his lips, accompanied by the gentle closure of his eyes. It was evident that he had transcended into a realm of his own, a world he generously shared with the captivated audience. Later on, I delved deeper into his work and his collaboration with Brian Eno, and I found myself delighted by Laraaji's music. I was fortunate enough to meet him after the show and purchase his CD "Bring on the Sun" (2017).
Following the compelling performances by both acts, Sachiko took the stage to the cheers and applause of the crowd. Beginning as a solo performer, she kicked off her set with the rare track "Tells of Stars."
Throughout her performance, Sachiko weaved tales of Japan and New York City, her musical journey, personal anecdotes, and lively, uplifting remarks, kindling a sense of positivity in the air. Her radiant and genuine presence illuminated the ambience as she spoke, sang and played. Since I was seated in the front row facing her, we even had a few interactions, which made me feel deeply connected to her music and presence.
Seeing this performance confirmed to me just how outstanding she is as a live performer. Her vocals stayed true to the recordings while also adding a unique touch to the live setting. Following her solo performance of three songs, her full band joined her on stage, starting off with my favorite track "I Need You" from her album "Fork in the Road." It was the moment I had been eagerly anticipating. The live rendition of this song fascinated me, drawing me in with the band's resounding sound of the guitars, drums, and violin. "I Need You" features heartfelt melodies that seamlessly blend Japanese and English lyrics, all conveying the same sentiment of the song. The band went on to perform five additional songs, capturing the same emotions and energy that Sachiko had conveyed.
At the end of the show, Sachiko made a surprise return to the stage for an encore, joined by her friends Laraaji, Mind Maintenance, and Steve Gunn for an impactful performance of the song "Sweet Rain."
The liveliness of the song was impressive as it encompassed the styles of all the opening acts. It felt like a fusion of all the performances in one song. It was truly stunning to hear this version of the song accompanied by such great artists.
After the show, I had the opportunity to meet Sachiko, during which we briefly shared thoughts about her performance and her forthcoming album.
My overall experience was truly unforgettable, and I eagerly anticipate witnessing her live performance again and her upcoming new album.
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