This CD recommendation is for adventurous listeners, or for those already turned on to the beauty of traditional or classical Asian vocal music. Each song in this compilation is a recital of poetry, sung in a highly melismatic style, with a "tightened throat" intonation that gave the genre, Ginei, its name. There is very little rhythmic propulsion to the tunes - the voices conjure an effect like fragrant smoke rising from a brazier, hanging lightly in the air. The compiled singers are beautifully accompanied by instruments that vary from track to track, ranging from traditional Japanese instruments to a tasteful solo organ(!)).
Most of the notes are in Japanese, though there is a brief paragraph in English on the Ginei genre (much appreciated by this gaijin). The recordings are high-quality mono, which leads me to believe that they were made in the late 50's / early 60's - I thus assume that this is a compilation of historical Ginei recordings, and the superb quality suggests a prime period for the genre.
Sound samples and CD available at HMV Japan:
http://www.hmv.co.jp/product/detail/1937103* Yes, I know how to spell Guinea, thanks. Jeez!
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