Thursday, July 21, 2011

Yeah Basically Cibo Matto

So I randomly discovered last Monday that not only had Cibo Matto reunited, but that they were playing in Boston on Wednesday. Exciting! For those of you that don't know, Cibo Matto consists of Yuka Honda (multi-insturmentalist) and Miho Hatori (crazy vocalist) and together they play a suprisngly fun blend of Asian Pop and Hip-Hop, utilizing an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink approach (Mitchell Froom produced their first album). Apparently, after reuniting for the first time in 10 years for a benefit for the victims of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami, Honda and Hatori found that they still had their groove on - hence the tour and an expected album in early 2012.

Anyways, this prompted a quickly-planned trip to the Brighton Music Hall (nee Harpers Ferry) last night. It was a quick set - an hour and a half consisting of the highlights of their two albums (minus "Lint of Love") along with three new beat-heavy tunes. (For a hit of what their new music might sound like, watch their tour promo video.) However, it was highly enjoyable. They started out as a duo, Hatori singing over Honda's keyboards, for three songs before a very energetic drummer and a bassist (who fed his bass guitar through his own keyboard!) joined them onstage and kicked the concert into high gear. Together, the band captured the quirky, energetic, and funky groove from the past, and Hatori even had the crowd doing the white-girl hip-hop strut by the end.

If you haven't heard Cibo Matto before, I highly reccomend giving them a listen. While I can see why Viva La Woman isn't everyone's cup of tea (although I think it's brilliant), Stereotype A should appeal to everyone. After all, who can't groove to lines like "What's up B? Wa-sa-bi / I'm searchin' the city for sci-fi wasabi!"

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