Sketches

[ Ode Records / CD ]

Release Date: Monday, 14 December, 2009

If you've ever seen taiko drummers in action, you'll know we aren't exaggerating when we say percussion act Strike is an intense experience. Although influenced by taiko, Strike is a uniquely modern take on the ancient Japanese art. Band members Murray Hickman, Takumi Motokawa, Leni Sulusi, Sam Minns, Tom Pierard, Tim Whitta, Erynne Gleeson and Stephanie Engelbrecht are all highly-trained musicians and their many different influences shine through in their music and performance.

For the new album, Sketches, Strike recorded nine songs, some of which it's had under its belt since the early 2000's, even one from 1997. They're well practiced - all the songs were recorded live, in one room, with no over-dubbing. It's pretty impressive, when you hear the album. 'We love playing with other musicians who are actually in the same room and hope you can hear that passion evident in this recording,' says co-founder Hickman.

The album is no let down. If you're not tapping your feet by the second song your headphones aren't plugged in. No surprise, considering the list of instruments - including vibraphone, marimba, ticky-tacky machine, water vibes, toms, snares, kick, scaff pipe, car panel, glock, woodblocks, shower, dippaphone and bellwater tower.

Unconventional, yes, but effective. Strike has gained an admirable reputation at home and overseas with its theatrical performances - check out the video on the myspace page! The group is often invited to collaborate with other musicians and performers. Coming up is a show with those energetic boys Kora, in Wellington on December 18th. The two bands teamed up for an electrifying performance at last year's Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards and, along with Sunshine Sound System, are promising a great night. Strike is in such high demand they'll be flitting off to Tokyo the next day, so if you happen to be heading over… (www.lovemusic.co.nz)