There's something about Pulse's visceral, whole-body Taiko drumming that strikes a primal chord, tucked away somewhere in human DNA. As a base for the performance group's takes on contemporary songs like David Bowie's "Heroes" and the Cranberries' "Zombie," the deep rhythms pounded from the Japanese instruments are hypnotic; laced with delicate cello, piano, and haunting vocals, all performed with such powerful physical grace it crosses into athleticism, the familiar music becomes something entirely unusual. Pulse's message is an inspiring one of joy, peace and compassion, its sound quirky and new-age; participate, as the artists request, by penning a wish to tie to the wishing tree set in front of the stage. Prepare to be uplifted. 

Four out of five stars.