Tujiko Noriko – From Tokyo To Naiagara

This is a difficult record, but not in the traditional sense of 'difficult' in reference to music. It is difficult not because the music is harsh or has no melodic nature-Quite the contrary. Nor is it overtly long, or overtly sad or depressing. No, it is difficult because anyone who has been in a failing relationship has been where Tujiko is on this record. "From Tokyo To Naiagara" (as far as I can tell), chronicles a slowly dying relationship, one where both parties sees the eminent demise, yet cannot (nor seem to want to) do anything about it. Neither party has been wronged, nor is it a lack of love...like all life, some things just die.

We've all been in Tujiko's place. The movement around the city: a quiet, sad train ride, essentially moving yet going no where.

The beats are warm and harsh at the same time. The beauty of the beats, their calming nature mixes with the sound of the train moving along the tracks. The lyrics (mostly in Japanese, but translated in the lyric book), are sung in a way in which we see and feel Tujiko's each and ever thought / mood / breath.

This is a difficult album. Yet, still, it is beautiful and wonderful.