Search - Various Artists :: Voyager Series: Japan - Buddhist Chant

Chants of the Shingon

Dr. Debra Jan Bibel | Oakland, CA USA | 07/02/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"With the recordings of Shingon monks on Le Chant du Monde no longer available, the excellent budget album affords the opportunity to hear the chants of this esoteric sect. Japanese Buddhist chant, or shomyo, here and among other sects follows two five-note scales, each with two auxiliar tones; a third scales incorporates the two scales. The brief and general text explanation is hardly useful and we remain ignorant of the distinctions of the seven tracks. The sound quality, however, is very good. Staccato phrasings and rap-like rhythms are common to Japan and Korean chant. Other than an occasional bell, there are no instruments. Chanting provides concentration and helps in reaching a strong meditative state. Passive listening, too, induces relaxation but also alertness. The album is recommended for those interested in comparative religious music and Japanese Buddhism."