Peter Washington on Jazz of Japan | Brian McCrory

Hikari Ichihara: Sara Smile

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sara Smile is the second album from trumpeter Hikari Ichihara, released in 2006. This nine-track album is an alluring mix of jazz standards, pop covers, and a few of Ichihara’s original compositions.

Ichihara’s group on this album is formed by drummer Lewis Nash, bassist Peter Washington, and pianist Adam Birnbaum. While the music is mostly played by the trumpeter’s quartet, the group expands with trumpeter Dominick Farinacci or sax player Grant Stewart stepping in to play with Ichihara on certain songs. Ichihara also switches between trumpet and flugelhorn for further variety in her playing and sound.

Akane Matsumoto: Memories of You

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

As the sentimental mood hints at in the cover photo and album title, Akane Matsumoto’s 2015 release Memories of You shows a softer side with ballads and heartfelt tunes, set together with her well-renowned fluid bebop and happy jazz style.

Rather than being filled to the brim with high-tempo chases, Matsumoto takes us on a more subdued and delicate journey on this album. While her trademark agility and speed are not completely excluded, the overall mood of the album evokes a slower, more thoughtful elegance.

Seiji Tada: Workout!!

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Seiji “Taddy” Tada cooks with bebop, blues, and ballads on Workout!! from 2018. This album, his 13th as leader, is a dream come true for the musician, as he recorded with stellar American jazz musicians whom he had previously toured with, famed jazz drummer Lewis Nash and his trio. No doubt these players, all worthy idols of Tada’s, provided extra inspiration for the high-caliber and exciting playing on this recording.

Akane Matsumoto: Night & Day

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Fun and buoyant bebop jazz in the style of Oscar Peterson and Phineas Newborn Junior, this is a happy jazz record from a thoroughly swinging trio led by pianist Akane Matsumoto. Professional arrangements performed by highly skilled musicians result in a solid album ranging from amazing quick-tempo tunes to slower, romantic brush-stroke ballads. Matsumoto’s fourth album as a leader, Night & Day features the accomplished pianist with her “New York Trio,” her second release with bassist Peter Washington and drummer Gene Jackson since Memories of You (2015).