[acid-jazz] Yukimi Nagano Invents New Singing Style - KOOP in SF

From: Don Knox (donknox_at_pacbell.net)
Date: 2003-03-01 17:52:31

  • Next message: Peter Nicholson: "Re: [acid-jazz] Yukimi Nagano Invents New Singing Style - KOOP in SF"

    Based on the volume of commentary of Koop's performances around the globe, I didn't know what to expect last night. I'm happy to say I was impressed.

    The band was incredibly tight as everyone said, but it was Yukimi that blew me away.

    OK, so her stage presence was a bit under-developed or perhaps just unusual. When she sang the first song, I was immediately put off because I wanted it to sound like I remember...beautiful, fluid and smooth.

    What happened was Yukimi sang like no one I've ever heard before. By the 2nd song, I was digging her style, albeit an affected style that is totally original.

    I may get slaughtered for my interpretation, but I would describe her singing as a swirling, multi-dimensional quality while channeling Billie Holiday. She lowered her vocal range substantially and didn't sing one high note (no where near her range on the CD) She kept moving the mic around her mouth which accentuated the swirling volume of her voice.

    At first it was irritating; then it captivated me; then it was purely enjoyable.

    Oh yeah, and the show was too short, but I did like the one new song they played.

    Look forward to hearing other opinions...Peace.