すばるの七ツ：吉村七重

Traditional Japanese instruments and contemporary compositions combine in this tranquil album. Along with clarinet, violin, and violoncello, the 20-string koto adds a sense of timelessness to the music's international influence.
Composer Takashi Yoshimatsu has long been an advocate of the "new lyricism" in modern music. The serenity of his timing heightens the music's elegance as he blends East with West. "Within Dreams, Without Dreams" is a perfect example of his style, with the koto's delicate strings gracing its airy, melodic structures. Featured performer Nanae Yoshimura shows the versatility and grand tradition of the koto, an instrument that has yet to develop a great Western following. Backed up by Seiki Shinohe, Katsuya Matsubara and Tomoya Kikuchi, the quartet displays a deep understanding of Yoshimatsu's music.