by Stephen Thomas Erlewine 　　 　　Rain Tree Crow is the result of a collaboration between former Japanmembers David Sylvianand Mick Karn. Sylvianand Karnteamed with keyboardist Richard Barbieriand Steve Jansen, adding guitarists Phil Palmerand Bill Nelsonfor their self-titled debut. Like a mellower, new age-oriented version of Japan, Rain Tree Crow explores stark soundscapes that sound alternately beautiful and desolate. Although it is a bit too challenging to provide a good introduction to Sylvianand Karn'smusic, the album remains fascinating for their fans.