Shugo Tokumaru - Rum Hee

Shugo Tokumaru
Rum Hee EP
(04.2009, Blues Interactions, Inc.)
RIYL = Colormusic, Sung Tongs Animal Collective, happiness

FG beloved, Shugo Tokumaru has returned to us in brief so I will only respond in brief. Within this, his first EP and latest slab of goodness, is three new songs, three alternate versions of older songs, one from each of his three full lengths and two remixes of the title track "Rum Hee." So, Eight tracks in whole, and nothing short of the goodness that is always Mr. Tokumaru’s MO, but certainly short of a much desired full length. At least the man is working and not forgetting his North American fanbase. Let’s start with the new stuff. The first two tracks, “Rum Hee” and “Alaska,” are pure pop ecstasy. I think I like "Alaska" of the two, but I obviously like both. Then there is “Inatemessa,” a weirdo meanderer that accelerates to odd ends, but at the same time is a fresh change of pace. I wouldn’t mind seeing a bit more experimentation from Mr. Tokumaru. The alternate version songs are…alternate versions of good songs, but not super alternate, or necessary. But still; pleasant (it is an EP for heaven’s sake). The remixes are dig-able. Oorutaichi’s in particular, which extends “Rum Hee” with all sorts of glib electronic weirdness. And then, of course, if you can get a remix by Deerhoof, take it. I think Deerhoof and Shugo Tokumaru fit together well.

-Lil' Thistle

Tokumaru's site for Rum Hee