Japanese Drum Ensemble Kodo Offers a World Tour

The music of Kodo, the Japanese drum ensemble that opened a three-night stand Thursday at the Wiltern Theatre, is deeply rooted in traditional Japanese culture, but the group was also an international pioneer of all-percussion touring groups. The lasting impression of the impressive 90-minute performance was how much Kodo now seems like the Japanese representative of a world full of related rhythms.

The ensemble’s set was marked by its command of musical dynamics, from visceral up-tempo sections that recalled the Brazilian samba school Olodum to passages so quiet that coughs and beepers in the audience were louder than the music. Every piece featured a different lineup and the focus also regularly shifted between different sections within the group--flutes and vocals occasionally breaking the all-drum mold and two pieces featuring hand cymbals of various sizes played with the command and dexterity of a master jazz drummer.

But Kodo’s music was also effective because the group didn’t neglect the theatrical aspect of the performance--such as the entrance of the 800-pound O’daiko drum on a cart illuminated by Japanese lanterns. Clearing the stage after each piece created the impression that each was a separate ritual and the physically taxing playing positions Kodo employed to spotlight soloists were also visually dramatic.

But the lighthearted, slammin’ encores that recalled early ‘80s go-go funk and the Brazilian samba schools showed an unexpected flip side to Kodo’s well-known communal living, discipline and Spartan aesthetic. Put those rhythmically vibrant performances on a 12-inch single and Kodo could probably fill the floor at a late-night dance club with people who don’t know the first thing about traditional Japanese culture.

* Kodo appears tonight at 8 and Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Wiltern Theatre, 3790 Wilshire Blvd. $29-$36. (213) 380-5005. Also Monday at the Orange County Performing Arts Center, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 8 p.m. $22-$36. (714) 556-2787.