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 This is a great album, period. Complete, lyrically varied, musically unpredictable, bordering on perfection.

 If you’re looking for THE Japanese album of the Seventies, this is one of the candidates.

Sadistic Mika Band's 'Hot! Menu' is hailed as a landmark 1970s Japanese glam rock album blending glam, art rock, and prog styles. It stands out for its mature, unpredictable music and evocative lyrics capturing Tokyo's gritty atmosphere. Praised for its flawless tracklist and musical craftsmanship, the album enjoyed notable success in the West and remains a must-listen classic. Key members like Kazuhiko Kato and Mika Fukui brought vibrant, eclectic influences, supported by accomplished musicianship. Dive into the electrifying sounds of Sadistic Mika Band's 'Hot! Menu'—experience a unique fusion of glam, art, and prog rock from 1970s Japan.

 I dare say: the most beautiful 90 cinematographic minutes of the last 10 years, for what is perhaps Zhang Yimou’s masterpiece.

 The duel between Sky and Nameless to the sound of the gu-zheng will appear emblematic to you.

The review praises Zhang Yimou's Hero as a cinematic masterpiece distinguished by its stunning visual style, profound narrative, and philosophical depth. The film's use of color symbolism and non-linear storytelling contributes to its unique poetic quality. The performances by Jet Li, Maggie Cheung, and others are highlighted for their emotional and interpretive strength. The reviewer regards Hero as one of the finest films of the last decade, offering both aesthetic pleasure and intellectual engagement. Dive into the poetic world of Hero and experience one of Chinese cinema’s most visually stunning and philosophically rich films.

 This is a great little album that stands on its own merit.

 Brant says it by creating music to space out, to dream, to wander; to lose oneself across vast expanses as far as the eye can see.

Brant Bjork's 1999 solo debut 'Jalamanta' showcases his skill beyond drumming, performing nearly all instruments himself. The album captures the stark, hypnotic essence of the Palm Desert scene with minimal Acid-Punk and psychedelic rock. Its repetitive, mature desert-rock compositions create expansive, soulful soundscapes. Drawing inspiration from Kyuss and classic rock, the album stands out as an underrated masterpiece with rich sonic textures and emotional depth. Reissued multiple times, it remains a key release for fans of desert and stoner rock. Listen to Jalamanta now and experience the hypnotic desert journey of Brant Bjork’s unforgettable solo debut!

 Mineko plays the bass like Jack Casady did, soaking twisted lines with Fuzz between Blues and Raga, but sings with a haunting, delicate little voice.

 The best lies in "I'm Sure To Meet You" and "Crazy Blues": absolute enjoyment with alternating sweet and bitter phases of "heavy syrup."

Angel'in Heavy Syrup's 1991 debut album showcases a masterful psychedelic sound from Osaka's all-female trio. The review highlights their blend of acid guitars, progressive rhythms, and a distinctive Japanese touch. Influences range from 60s and 70s psychedelia to krautrock, resulting in complex, colorful, and multi-thematic songs. Noted are the band’s skillful instrumental work and haunting vocals, establishing the album as a must-listen for fans of the genre. Dive into Angel'in Heavy Syrup's debut to experience Japan's finest psychedelic journey—listen now and explore a rich tapestry of sound!

 His solo debut... is one of the fundamental albums of the last two decades, like it or not.

 For the emotions the album knows how to convey... I find it complicated to put into words the beastly garage of 'Naive Bid' and the hallucinatory Hard Blues of 'Find The Key'.

Jack Endino's 'Angle of Attack' defies easy categorization but stands as a seminal work in the grunge and noise scene. Created with a lo-fi, spontaneous approach, the album showcases raw creativity and experimental sounds. Its importance stems from its influence rather than mainstream recognition, making it an essential listen for fans of underground alternative rock. The review highlights Endino's visionary role despite limited resources and technical skills. Dive into the raw and visionary world of Jack Endino's 'Angle of Attack'—a must-listen for grunge and alternative rock enthusiasts!

 Now then, who is David Shea? A few (necessary) notes on the subject...

 For those familiar with certain filmography, the evocative power of this record will appear irresistible.

This review praises David Shea's 1996 album Hsi-Yu Chi for its innovative fusion of martial arts cinema influences with diverse musical styles, from orchestral to free jazz and ethnic sounds. The album successfully evokes classic Kung Fu film imagery while remaining original and enjoyable. Featuring contributions from John Zorn and Marc Ribot, it is recommended especially for fans of experimental soundtracks and martial arts culture. The reviewer finds it a perfect antidote to uninspired holiday TV programming. Dive into David Shea's Hsi-Yu Chi and experience a unique musical tribute to martial arts cinema – listen now and feel the cinematic journey!

 Many play the trumpet today, but few manage to make it speak; and howl; and sob: He’s among those few.

 It’s a space-time in which everything stops and everything is silent: everything, except the (vibrant, convulsive) breath of his instrument.

Wadada Leo Smith's Tao-Njia is a deeply meditative and improvisational jazz album rooted in blues and spiritual expression. While acknowledging Miles Davis' influence, Smith forges his own intense, emotional soundscape. The album blends various instruments and experimental techniques to create a unique orchestral experience. Produced by John Zorn on the Tzadik label, Tao-Njia challenges traditional jazz and classical forms. It invites listeners to immerse themselves in a contemplative, psychedelic journey. Dive into Wadada Leo Smith’s Tao-Njia and experience a groundbreaking blend of jazz, blues, and orchestral improvisation today!

 You just need to have her recite it, but she must do it well, intensely, articulating each word with passion.

 An orgy of percussion, that’s what needs to come out.

This review outlines the three-step avant-garde approach John Zorn uses in his album blending spoken texts in Mandarin, Korean, and Vietnamese with diverse instrumental backdrops. It highlights the intense narration, hypnotic guitars, raw percussion, and subtle keyboard expansions. The review appreciates the complex, sometimes unsettling atmosphere created, though it acknowledges the work's challenging and unclassifiable nature. Dive into John Zorn’s boundary-pushing avant-garde soundscape and experience his East Asian inspired musical experiment.

 It is indeed one of the albums I’ve enjoyed the most in the last decade. A true delicacy, to tell the truth, of those that don’t come around too often...

 Miho’s voice... is a caress for the ears: can you imagine an Arto Lindsay in a skirt...?

This review highlights 'The Two EPs' by Smokey & Miho as a rare and enchanting album that beautifully blends Samba and Bossa Nova with delicate, sensual vocals. Miho Hatori's tender, playful style paired with Smokey Hormel's expert guitar work creates a nostalgic, vintage Brazilian atmosphere. The album features masterful reinterpretations of classics alongside original compositions, showcasing the duo’s deep passion and musical finesse. Despite its rarity, the album is highly recommended. Listen to Smokey & Miho’s enchanting album and immerse yourself in classic Samba and Bossa Nova rhythms today!

 A marvelous symphony as commentary on an oriental dusk, according to the interpretation appropriately offered by the title.

 His bizarre yet formidable ability to combine European scholarly harmony and Thai folk music; but in a completely 'heretical' and anti-linear way.

Christopher Adler's 'Epilogue For A Dark Day' is a rare and masterful fusion of Eastern traditional Thai music and Western scholarly harmony. The album highlights his innovative use of the Khaen mouth organ and features live orchestral and percussion performances. Adler's deep research and unique compositional voice create a hypnotic, majestic musical experience that stands out in the world music and avant-garde scenes. The album avoids typical clichés and offers a fresh, profound sonic perspective. Explore Christopher Adler’s hypnotic fusion of East-West sounds—listen to 'Epilogue For A Dark Day' and experience a unique musical journey.