Just found
this rather interesting article on Shiina, a recommended read. An excerpt:
Quote:
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Shiina Ringo, a 25-year-old Japanese singer / guitarist / drummer / pianist, has been invaluable in suggesting a much-needed new direction for contemporary Japanese music in an age when modern Japanese culture in general is commonly (and almost reflexively) perceived if not as a direct imitation of Western culture, then as something that is and always has been derived from a limited understanding of the West (a perception over 100 years old).
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It also mentions Ayumi, see for yourself. Maybe not an easy read, but it's worth it.