Fujii, Satoko
Libra, 2015, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 22.1
Jazz Ruler Type: Avant Garde
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score:
O’s Notes: Yamiyo Ni Karasu features pianist Satoko Fujii (p) in a quartet with Nasuki Tamura (t), Todd Nicholson (b) and Takeshi Itani (d). The foursome, Tobira is a formalization of the trio+1 that frequently included Tamura as a guest artist. They play seven new Fujii compositions, all free jazz with each musician adding their interpretation. Tamura’s signature, airy style is pronounced and noteworthy. They open with “Hanabi”, a peaceful song with an open stage. The intensity rises on “Fuki” but they maintain space around the soloists. That lessens the chaos sometimes associated with free jazz and makes this a fine and enjoyable effort!
Publicist: Braithwaite & Katz