Biography

On Ensemble (pronounced “Ohn”) takes the ancient instruments of taiko into new realms. Infusing the powerful rhythms of ensemble Japanese drumming with elements of hip-hop, rock and electronica, On Ensemble’s unique sound has been praised as “completely original and brilliantly conceived.” Modern Drummer magazine calls On Ensemble “an exciting taiko ensemble looking at new ways to apply traditional Japanese drums.”

On Ensemble’s four members, Masato Baba, Kristofer Bergstrom, Shoji Kameda and Kelvin Underwood, are individually recognized as leading artists in their field and sought after as teachers, workshop leaders, composers and performers. As On Ensemble they combine their study and deep appreciation of tradition with equally formative experiences as DJs, electronic music producers, Jazz drummers, and rock bassists to create a repertoire of ground-breaking music.

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Music

Ume in the Middle
2009
Cinematic, beat-driven fusion of taiko, percussion, voice, turntable, throat singing, koto, shinobue and electronic effects.
CD: $12.97 MP3: $9.99
Reviews
3
 
Ukiyo Live
2007
Infusing the powerful rhythms of taiko (Japanese drums) with musical influences ranging from jazz, rock and electronica to Tuvan throat singing, On Ensemble creates ground-breaking music.
MP3: $7.99 CD: $11.97
Reviews
0
 
Live at the Cerritos Center DVD
2007
Full length DVD featuring On Ensemble's innovative fusion of taiko and and world music influences recorded at a sold out performance at the Cerritos Center of the Performing Arts.
CD: $19.99
Reviews
0
 
NEIRO DVD
2006
Full length DVD of On Ensemble's ground-breaking taiko (Japanese drum) music.
CD: $19.99
Reviews
3
 
Dust and Sand
2005
Seeking to explore new realms for traditional Japanese drums, On Ensemble combines musical influences ranging from centuries-old Kabuki music to jazz, rock and electronica .
MP3: $8.99 CD: $12.97
Reviews
6