The Dolomites' 'The Japan Years, Volumes I-III' album review

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The Dolomites’ latest release, a three volume EP series titled The Japan Years, Volumes I-III was released on Oct. 10 from MONSTER MUZIK. The albums are an assortment of works recorded in Japan from 2006-2009.

The band recorded an eclectic array of tracks that include the accordion, tuba, the goblet drum, the chindo drum, the tambourine and the Cajón, which is box-shaped percussion instrument. In addition, the musicians vary between volumes. On Volume I, there is Ono Akiyasu on the tuba; Kogure Miwazo on the Chindo drum; Kuchu Shinshi on the Darabuka aka the Goblet drum and the tambourine; Tanaka Masayoshi on drums and the Cajón and Stefanko Jancu on the accordion, guitar and vocals. The Volume II musicians are Akiyasu again on the tuba; Masayoshi on drums and the Cajón; Koji Ianco on the accordion, violin, vocals and percussion; Aaron Goldsmith on the acoustic bass and clapping; and Yas Inoue on the guitar and clapping. Finally, the Volume III musicians are Akiyasu on the tuba; Quchyu Sinshi on the Darabuka aka the Goblet drum and backing vocals; Masayoshi on drums and the Cajón; and Stevhen Koji Iancu on the accordion and vocals.

The band’s sound has a wide range drawing from musical genres like old-school Japanese Mafia Enka, Tzigani (Romani) melodies, Indonesian gamelan and space cumbia sounds. In addition, poignant Balkan ballads are present along with forceful and expressive accordion work, tribal scatting and a collection of gongs, violins plus Latin and Japanese percussion.

Volume I contains tunes that are both entertaining and jubilant to listen as well as ones that are very calming and soothing.

“Yamecha Dame” opens with soulful accordion play from Jancu. Then, the instrumental harmonies appear using the Chindon and Goblet drums and the tambourine and a slow, melodic rhythm begins that’s very peaceful. Listeners could imagine turning on this track after getting home from a hard day’s work and looking to listen to something that will relax them.

“Kusuri Rhumba” starts off with sprightly drum play from Miwazo and Masayoshi with Jancu’s accordion and Ariyasu’s tuba playing alongside in perfect harmony and pitch.

Volume II’s “Aria Maria” commences with Akiyasu’s booming tuba play, Ianco’s brilliant accordion work along with Goldsmith’s acoustic bass, Ianco’s violin and Masayoshi tapping on his Cajón in the background. Also, Ianco’s deep vocals accompany the instrument play well and makes this one danceable and joyful ditty.

“Yoidore Yume Yoi" opens with Ianco’s fun accordion play accompanied by Inoue’s riveting guitar and Masayoshi’s drumming in the background. The addition of Ianco’s intense vocals brings a touch of seriousness to the song. Yet, it’s still an engaging, very danceable song a listener might hear at a party to get things livened up and to entice guests onto the dancefloor.

Finally, Volume III’s “Yatto Yatta” is initiated by Masayoshi’s calming Cajón play along with Shinshi’s resilient drumming. Its beat is one that could make listeners get up and groove whether they’re alone or with a dance partner. Also, Akiyasu’s tuba makes its presence known with resounding notes. Meanwhile, Iancu’s accordion play is masterful as listeners could just let the infectious rhythm of this track envelop them.

“Monster Shake" is unlike any of the previous tracks on this volume or the other two. It has an electronica beat to it despite Iancu’s accordion play and Masayoshi’s flourishing drum work. Listeners who are fans of music with an electronic kick plus other varied instruments will love these three volumes.

In conclusion, The Japan Years, Volumes I-III by the Dolomites is a diverse mixture of songs with influences from numerous musical genres. If you’re a fan of a group that delivers a series of sounds, beats and rhythms that span the world’s history, then these are the volumes for you!