NPR's Eric Weiner reports that the hottest item on the Japanese music scene is a duo that has adopted an ancient musical instrument called the Shamisan to produce an energetic sound that has elements of rock, flamenco and jazz, all punctuated with occasional grunts. The Yoshida brothers' appearance also is a bit of fusion -- their hair is dyed and spiked, but they dress in traditional kimonos. It's a look that especially seems to appeal to young Japanese women, who are normally faithful listeners of what's known as "J-Pop, " the synthetic sound that is so popular in today's Japan. (4:30)
NOTE: The Yoshida Brothers recording is currently only available from Tower Records Japan's Website http://www.towerrecords.co.jp/int/index.html
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