“Kodo: Live at the Acropolis” is a good introduction to this
famous percussion troupe. It’s a one-hour DVD of a 1995
concert performed at the ruins of the Acropolis in Greece,
and released under the Sony label.
The film was originally aired on PBS, and had interview
segments sprinkled throughout the actual concert. Who
better to host this film than Mickey Hart (1943 – ) famed
musician, ethnomusicologist and former Grateful Dead drummer?
The Japanese-titled tunes featured numerous performers
on drums of various sizes, with flute and vocal accompaniment.
I found it interesting, but not totally compelling, although I’m
definitely glad that I checked it out. In fact, I was more
intrigued by the bonus feature concerning Mickey Hart’s
“Mondo Head” project. This was a collaboration of Kodo
group members with various World Music musicians, including
tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain (1951 – ) and percussionist
Airto Moreira (1941 – ).
It’s important to me not to confine myself to hearing
“Western” music. In the future, I plan to watch and hear
more discs like this one. It’s a big world out there!
