Eastern Energy Audio Twelve Girls Band

This is my first Twelve Girls Band CD, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, loving every single song! I'm a fan of traditional Chinese music but also love contemporary music, and the music of Twelve Girls Band is the perfect marriage between both. In particular, "Mountains And Rivers" on this CD combines two beautiful traditional Chinese pieces ("High Mountains, Flowing Rivers" and "Spring River and Moonlit Night") and "updates" them with contemporary beats yet keeping true to the two original songs. You really get the feeling that you are looking out over lush mountain ranges and river valleys when listening to this song. And that isn't the only song that brings you to exotic places - "Shangri-La" and "The Great Valley" turn the sights of grand landscapes into sound.Even those who have not been exposed to traditional Chinese music would love this CD. The beats and jumpiness that float around the Chinese instruments would appeal to any fan of contemporary music, and maybe make them dance and bop around in their seat like I did! Sometimes when well-known songs are modernized or are played in different genres (such as a rock song played on classical instruments), the original feeling and spirit of the song is lost, and even the original sound and speed at worst, but Twelve Girls Band has shown in "Eastern Energy" that Chinese instruments can play in harmony with just about any tune in any genre. The best examples I can give for this are "Only Time," originally written and sung by Enya, "New Classicism," (three well-known classical pieces in one) and "Clocks," originally by Coldplay.The bonus DVD is a treat to watch and isn't loaded down with behind-the-scenes shots and boring material. The DVD even includes five songs ("Shangri-La," "Alamuhan," "New Classicism," "Forbidden City," and "Freedom") played live in Budokan, Japan. I enjoyed watching this segment because you see the girls really getting into the music and playing with their whole heart; they smile, dance, and move with great grace. They are true musical performers, not just players who sit down, never look at the audience, or appear to be annoyed or uncomfortable in playing live. Also included are the music video for "Freedom," a short video giving a summary of the band, and credits for the DVD and concert.I guarantee you that this CD will leave you in a better mood than before you started listening to it!

I first heard about this "band" on a television commercial back in the fall of 2004. I was struck by their version of the song "Clocks" and it got my curiosity going! So, I did a little online research and discovered that their ensemble had been around for awhile. I ordered my copy of "Eastern Energy" and waited. I must agree, it was worth the wait! For me, their musicianship and their ability to segue from ancient to modern themes floored me! It is one of those "set it and forget it" collections that everyone should add to their library! I recommend it for everyone! Five stars!!

Great music. Did a great job on song called Clock. I have not listen to these guys in a long time!! And they use Chinese strings.

I bought several copies of this to share with friends who are Cold Play fans. The track "Clocks" beats the original hollow. Anyone who hears this and doesn't fall in love with the erhu (the 2-stringed "fiddle") is either totally unaware or just dismally souless. The DVD, though short, was even better than the cd.

I got this CD and it is great, I love it! I am one of the lucky ones to have a 12 Girls Band CD.I wish I could have them sign it.The shipping was great. Thank you so much for the excellent service.I highly recommend any of the 12 Girls Band CDs.

This is the second time I've ordered this CD. Had to give the first one to my granddaughter. Lovely, cheerful music played on traditional Chinese instruments.

I was offered a "like new" item, and it was in great condition. Bought this for a friend who could not find it, and they were thrilled with it.

I purchased his as a replacement. I had given my original as a gift and then missed it greatly. I would love to find some new material from Twelve Girls Band!!