Concert Review: Taku Hirano Is A Human Octopus At Soho House

Taku Hirano has journeyed across the world as one of the top percussionists of his time. Thus, to see him play what he called “The Octopus Project”m at Soho House, was an exciting opportunity. Percussive instruments can, literally, maneuver a heartbeat to its rhythm. By the end of the night, you understood why he called his new music journey after the eight-legged creature; Taku might as well have eight legs in playing multiple instruments, all at once.

I do not think you fully understand, nor do I, the amount of focus, intelligence, and stamina it takes to play three to four instruments, AT ONCE! The thought of it exhausts me and humbles me to its current impossibility as something I could genuinely do well. Thus, seeing Taku pounce on the conga, tap the cow-bell, wave his tambourine, and synthesize through his laptop, simultaneously, had me questioning why I still did not know how to walk and chew gum at the same time. Okay, I kid, but it is that type of impression that leaves you both in awe and challenged by Taku’s talent, in the best way. It is truly a blessing to be a creative spirit, but one as vast as him or his friend Alluxe seems beyond earthly miracles; these are celestial calls. In some ways, that is why Taku is so insular in his style.

Contrary to the dynamism of Alluxe, Taku is very intimate and private with his music-bond. Of course, between sets he would sweetly describe their inspiration, from New York City streets to global tours, but once the music began, he was gone. Taku was fully possessed by his instrumental task, and, because it was so grandiose, you had to watch. He did not need to hoot or holler through his plays because his music and style demands your mental attention and physical movement. As Taku closes his eyes, he creates a sonic concoction as delicious and drinkable as the cocktail bar of Soho House. Amongst the champagne and laughs of the Vinyl Room, Taku laced the night with sets that differed from each other but found common ground in elaborating his greatness. From beats that quaked like an electric jungle to a Michael Jackson percussive remix, Taku brought dance, talent, and an artful sophistication to what it means to be an instrumentalist. Sure Taku is used to being in the background for other artists, but that night, in Soho House, he was phenomenally in the forefront for his own artistry. For More Information On Taku Hirano Click here.