Oriental Sunrise features four duets for shakuhachi and koto with nature sounds to enhance the atmospheres. Riley Lee, one of only a few westerners to become a “Dai Shihan” (grand master) on the shakuhachi, performs with Satsuki Odamura, Helen Castello, and/or Tony Lewis on koto. Bruce Emsley provides field recordings. This is a very calm and peaceful set of acoustic, pastoral ambience. Lee’s performances are breathtaking and soulful. The accompanying kotos add just enough of an edge to keep the soundscapes interesting. This meditation treasure will appeal to fans of Nawang Khechog, Life in Balance, and Stan Richardson. – Jim Brenholts