Okimoto, Noel
Noel Okimoto, 2025, CD
Instrument: Drums
Issue: 31.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 76
O’s Notes: Hawaiian drummer, percussionist, composer Noel Okimoto leads a septet with Dean Taba (b), Tommy James (p), Abe Lagrimas Jr. (vibes, ukulele), Haru Takauchi (g), DeShannon Higa (t, flugelhorn), and Michael Grande on electric piano (on “Opuscule”). This is an unusual grouping for jazz, but they present a fresh approach with music that is enticing. Hô’ihi’ means to treat with reverence and respect. Okimoto demonstrates this with the art form, musicians, and his environment. Our favorites are “Under the Bottom”, “Patina Ballerina”, “Cachorro”, and “Braying”.
Publicist: Jazz Promo Services