I like-o the taiko?

November 9, 2009 11:19 AM

Introduce me to some great taiko drumming!

I've discovered Kodo, but I'm sure there are many more fantastic groups out there. Hook me up!

posted by DolorousEdd to Media & Arts (8 answers total)

Perhaps not exactly what you're looking for but do you know of Maceo Hernandez, the demon drummer of East L.A.? Non traditional taiko but very amazing.
posted by cazoo at 11:39 AM on November 9, 2009

If you're still in the L.A. area, try to catch a Zendeko performance sometime. They generally put on a good show. I don't think they have a current schedule up on their website, but I'm sure you could email them for one, and they make fairly regular appearances at various Japanese events. I used to see them at least once a year, usually during Obon.
posted by Diagonalize at 11:45 AM on November 9, 2009

I was going to suggest Kodo, but too late...

I don't know what their recordings are like, but Taikoz definitely put on a good show.
posted by UbuRoivas at 12:03 PM on November 9, 2009

Considering that ensemble Taiko dates from Daihachi Oguchi's invention of the form in 1951, calling any of it traditional is a stretch.
posted by idiopath at 12:31 PM on November 9, 2009

Fubuki Daiko is a pretty good local taiko group; they have a couple of discs for sale on their site. Some samples here.
posted by Hardcore Poser at 1:07 PM on November 9, 2009

You could get taiko drum master for the ps2 or wii and experience it first hand.
posted by bravowhiskey at 2:03 PM on November 9, 2009

I saw a cool performance last year at the Richmond Folk Festival by San Jose Taiko. Looks like they have a couple CDs as well as their performances at various festivals.
posted by wundermint at 5:14 PM on November 9, 2009

Savage Aural Hotbed
posted by chazlarson at 7:59 PM on November 9, 2009