This veteran group has been dazzling listeners for more than a decade with their unique mix of jazz, pop and traditional Japanese sounds, but Hiroshima's 2nd Qwest album represents their most eclectic and innovative work to date. This album, produced by U.K. producer Robin Millar (Sade, Fine Young Cannibals, Everything But the Girl) introduces new lead vocalist Kimaya Seward and features guest vocals by Hamish Stewart (Average White Band) on 3 tracks. Hiroshima begins a major U.S. tour in August.
Urban World Music captures a revitalized and re-energized Hiroshima, full of new ideas and new ambitions. Although the title suggests that the album is composed of worldbeat explorations, that isn't quite the case. Like any Hiroshima album, Urban World Music is filled with fusions, but the music on this particular collection is given a slight, but noticeable, dance-oriented sheen, thanks to producer Robin Millar (who previously worked with Sade and Everything But the Girl). With new lead vocalist Kimaya Sweard in tow, Hiroshima creates a lightly funky set of jazzy soul numbers, complete with worldbeat flourishes. As always, the gruop has problems writing consistently compelling material, but when they are on, they provide some intriguing sounds and directions. In short, Urban World Music suggests more than it delivers, but those suggestions are quite enticing on their own. ~ Leo Stanley, All Music Guide
