SUSUMU YOKOTA IMAGE 1983-1998 Leaf/UK/CD Licensed from Skintone Records in Japan, Image 1983-1998 is a collection of works from Susumu Yokota from the early 80s (three from 1983 and two from 1984) and late 90s (eight pieces recorded in 1997 and 1998). The album's title refers to the theme of this package-the examination of the smallest details involved in sound, art, and emotion--most evident in the accompanying artwork (photos, collages, and paintings) by Yokota. The early tracks were recorded with just guitar and organ and emit a certain eerie mood through their simplicity. The newer tracks, Yokota writes in the liner notes, were inspired by re-examining this older material, both the audio and the visual. Like the early musical works, the tracks from '97 and '98 again focus on subtle instrumentation, using acoustic guitar, but also a wide variety of keyboards and some chorused female vocals. Those who are only familiar with the Yokota who trucks in the more electronic-techno, house, IDM, and electro-jazz-might want to investigate this other facet in this talented musician's palette. Andrew Duke Back to album/book reviews index