The Japanese drum ensemble Kodo was in the middle of a North American tour when last Friday's earthquake devastated Japan. "We are trying to keep a sense of positivity at this moment,” the manager of the 27-member troupe, Jun Akimoto, told WQXR. As part of Carnegie Hall's JapanNYC festival, the troupe puts a modern spin on the traditional taiko drum on Sunday night. Prepare to hear thunderous sounds: the band's name, Kodo, means "heartbeat," and reflects the band's “desire to play the drums simply, with the heart of a child.” Download the track “Sora” above and check out the video below from a live Kodo performance at the Acropolis in Athens, Greece.
03/18/11 >> 
