Demo Critique
author: Music Connection
Lee Takasugi has a flair for the theatrical and a well-schooled voice that's note-perfect. The tunes, "Love Ain't Easy," "The Circle Song," and "A Little Strange" embody the humanity and sensitivity of a mature artist. Rather than jam her tracks with artificial energy, the production provides this heartfelt performer with calm, organic space which she inhabits with graceful melodies and complex harmonies. Perhaps this artist would do well to apply her talents to an original musical-theatre collaboration.
Music Connection Vol. XXXII, No.4,
2/18/08 to 3/2/08
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Review, "Lee, Navigating by Stars"
author: Jimi Yamagishi; director, SongNet
Like an exceptionally fine wine or dessert, this collection of songs from Lee Takasugi is to be savored with your undivided attention, preferably through a fine sound system to capture every subtle nuance she has crafted into each piece. The lack of reverb in almost every mix, while startling at first, provides an intimacy and presence that enhances the overall concept of the project, especially when time is taken to absorb the flavors of each song one at a time. Lee's vocals are clear and expressive, caressing every word and syllable, and her supporting musicians also follow her vision here, keeping the arrangements clean but quirky.
Different but accessible, unique but familiar, "Navigating by Stars" is an excellent and very personal rendering from the heart and soul of the artist.
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