YAMATO invigorates London with their full energy presented through their Taiko performance
It’s a feast for drummers, rhythm lovers, and all those seeking to rejuvenate their spirits after a long, tiring day. Directed by Masa Ogawa, Hinori: The Wings of Phoenix showcases the pinnacle of Japanese Taiko performance, offering a pure, ultimate display of showmanship that audiences will both enjoy and respect. Toured in 2019 before the pandemic, the show’s name symbolically reflects London’s welcome to Yamato’s nirvana, or conversely, Yamato’s celebration of London’s survival.
With sheer showmanship and hyper energy, the performance opens with the earthy sounds of o-taiko (お太鼓 large drums), accompanied by ensemble chanting. This chanting is a notable element in both traditional Japanese matsuri (祭り festival) performances and contemporary Japanese concerts. Hinori cleverly integrates fan-chanting by teaching the London audience to participate, evoking nostalgia and cheer for those familiar with Japanese concert culture. The only minor drawback is that the audience must remain seated, unable to ouen ( 応援 literally to support) the performers by standing up and chanting. The MC segments, where performers playfully interact with the audience, also feel wonderfully familiar and authentically Japanese.
Meanwhile, the show balances its powerful drum beats with more serene music, delicately interweaving traditional Japanese instrument solos such as the koto (こと Japanese zither) and samisen (三味線 literally “three strings”). A trio of chappa (ちゃっぱJapanese hand cymbals) percussion subtly evokes the Japanese countryside, symbolised by light projections indicating children playing with fireflies on a summer night.
There is also a tai-ban (対バンbattle) section that showcases precision and high skill, demonstrating not only thunderous beats, but also a sense of theatricality, well devised through both sides competing by gradually adding more and larger drums to their own side. A cute collaboration hides under the dramatic arrangement of battling. The performers’ merry apologies for their English also add a charming touch, highlighting their consideration and mastery of the performance space.
Full credit is due to all performers: Akiko Ogawa, Mika Miyazaki, Marika Nito, Jun Kato, Kenta Ono, Naoki Ekihiro, Nene Miura, Jo Nakamura, Daisuke Jonai, Tatsuya Iwaki, Genta Ogawa, Wakaba Sudani, and Yumesa Tanaka. Each of them shines both in their solos and in the ensemble performances, and it is particularly delightful to see four female drummers in the ensemble as well, demonstrating their professionalism on par with men.
Hinori is truly a refreshing and invigorating boost, perfect for anyone seeking an experience of being exhilaratingly dynamic, electrifying, and soul-shaking.