Mr. Shimabukuro's skill and musical sense is inspiring. He takes an instrument that was dragged through the mud by the Tiny Tims of this old world and transforms it.
Reconsidering that -- I'm not sure if he does transform the uke -- I think he transforms our thinking about it. On this cd, it stands equally and unapologetically with the other instruments, with authority and presence.
I can only imagine what sort of person he is. Definite strong and positive sense of life, definite generosity of spirit, judging by his interplay with the other musicians. Frets Magazine did a spotlight interview with him, and he sounded like someone you'd want to hold a conversation with, introduce to your daughters...
I'll need to alert Amazon that I'll be ordering a half dozen or so to give away for Christmas. Making the list now....
5つ星のうち4.0Pleasant fusion jazz fare from the Ukulele virtuoso
2006年8月18日にアメリカ合衆国でレビュー済み
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In this CD, ukulele genius Jake Shimabukuro wraps his pleasant, if not entirely original, compositions with fully orchestrated arrangements. The end result is listenable enough, but does not do justice to his amazing talent. Best cuts are the title cut, "Me and Shirley T" (the drink, not the actress) and "Touch". A cover version of "En Aranjuez Con Tu Amor" falls flat.
Try to catch Jake live. There is nothing quite like it. I'm looking forward to his next project, which is presumably an all solo instrumental disc.
So you think the ukulele is some cheap toy instrument that tourists buy when they go to Hawaii? Better get ready to have your mind blown by Jake S. when he starts to play because he can hold his own with any guitar god when he starts to kick ass on this instrument. Forget about "Tiny Grass Shack" and check out what this kid can do on four strings. He is a serious, hardcore musician. Don't believe me? Check it out. You've got to see this guy play live. Amazing!
I could'nt believe this music was played on a ukulele! I even ordered one for my brother. This is a unique piece of music that will thrill many listeners. I like it a lot!