Shin-Ichiro Ikebe has written, in my eyes, a masterwork in exploration of tension and release. This work approaches long-form snare drum music in a way I have yet to see in other compositions. Ikebe’s constant changing of dynamic within rolls, continuously fluctuating, creating almost a wash of sound that builds more and more, until the soundscape is interrupted by an abrupt stop, finally. The piece then builds back up to the end with a shout of relief. This physically and mentally demanding piece challenged me in the most unexpected ways. I am captured by the way that this piece showcases the unpredictability of simply one drum. I found myself loving every challenge that this piece threw at me, as it introduced me to something brand new to me that I could show off.