Osaka Groove by Adam Tan

Osaka Groove is an energetic and driving duo with a strong groove, yet laid-back in its feel and whimsical nature based on the nature of the Japanese city of Osaka. This dichotomy in Osaka Groove represents Osaka’s thriving and bustling metropolis that often counterbalances with its more relaxing and friendly culture. With this in mind, I wrote this piece for my friend Kana Omori in 2023 as a celebration of two events – Kana’s long-awaited return to my home city of Perth as a faculty artist for Marimbafest 2023, and the news that Kana was now a professor at her alma mater, the Osaka College of Music.

Kana’s style of performing was an inspiration for the feel of Osaka Groove – a Latin-style groove base with J-pop style chord structures and harmonies, energised by classical percussion style cross rhythm and complexity. Kana often performs works and covers like Jounetsu Tairiku, Senbonzakura and Gurenge with incredible flair and dynamism while on stage, so this energy is replicated by both parts in Osaka Groove. Both parts contain flashy 32nd note runs that juxtapose with satisfying unison chordal blocks, making this an ideal duo work for anyone looking to go all out in their ensemble performance practice.

Osaka Groove is also written for two 4.3 octave marimbas, making it more accessible for anyone looking to play ‘big’ duos with a smaller setup.