This Japanese synthesist creates lush, pop-influenced music that's almost symphonic in conception. A composer of film and television scores in his native country, Himekami is also well known for his multimedia events at historic shrines and temples throughout Japan. His recorded music, however, is inconsistent in quality. Even his "best of" collections released in the United States feature sweet, easy-listening fluff alongside his more masterful musical journeys. ~ Linda Kohanov