Ayumi Koketsu - Daybreak (2011)

As soon as she made her debut in July 2010, Ayumi Koketsu attracted attention in the jazz world not only for her youth and beauty, but also for her soft tone, reliable technique and emotion, and the impact of her own compositions. At the time of her debut, she was selected for the first issue of Jazz Japan magazine's New Star Award. She says: "I want to think together and create something better..." So, for this album she concentrated on playing some of her favourite jazz standards emanating from some of the core musicians she has admired and emulated whilst developing her own presence on the modern jazz scene. 

M & I Records, MYCJ-30585, 2011
Recorded 14th & 15th November, 2010 at Hitokuchi-Zaka Studio, Tokyo, Japan 

Musicians:
Ayumi Koketsu - Alto Saxophone
Yoshihiko Naya - Piano
Masayuki Tawarayama - Bass
Mark Taylor - Drums

Tracks:
01. Daybreak {Ayumi Koketsu} (4:38)
02. Subconscious-Lee {Lee Konitz} (3:55)
03. Embarcadero {Paul Desmond} (6:37)
04. How Deep Is The Ocean {Irving Berlin} (4:45)
05. Dogwood {Mashiko Tatsuro, Hitoto Yo} (5:57)
06. Evidence {Thelonious Monk} (5:11)
07. After Dark {Yoshihiko Naya} (5:22)
08. I Can't Get Started {Ira Gershwin, Vernon Duke} (5:35)
09. Out Of Nowhere {Edward Heyman, John Green} (5:27)
10. Ezz-Thetic {George Russell} (3:36)
11. Oleo {Sonny Rollins} (4:23) 

Total Time: 55:33 

Credits:
Producer - Hiro Yamashita, Yoshihiko Naya
Executive-Producer - Mitsuo Shimano
Recording & Mixing - Mizuo Miura
Engineer [Assistant] - Daisuke Takizawa
Mastering - Yoshihiro Kawasaki
Art Direction, Design - Hiromi Adachi
Photography - Kunihiro Takuma
Liner Notes - Ayumi Koketsu 

I Can't Get Started

Ayumi Koketsu - Rainbow Tales (2012)

Saxophonist Ayumi Koketsu creates exciting modern jazz on her third album Rainbow Tales from 2012, where she leads of group of accomplished Norwegian musicians on a modern-sounding recording. The session was beautifully captured at the famous Rainbow Studios in Oslo, where the European-label ECM sound seems to influence the session under Koketsu’s leadership and virtuosity. With crystal clear sax and cymbals riding above the warm, full piano and deep wood bass, this style is particularly noticeable on “Mikazuki” (Crescent Moon), a folk/rock-like tune reminiscent of Keith Jarrett. The album contains a nice balance on its eleven songs. Along with three swinging original numbers, Koketsu also picks some jazz standards including a lovely “Bewitched”, a driving “Summertime”, a Paul Desmond-like “When Joanna Loved Me”, Lennie Tristano’s “Two Not One”, and Ornette Coleman’s “Bird Food”. Throughout, Koketsu’s versatile bop playing and improvisation are on display, along with exquisite modern solos from the pianist and a sharp rhythm section elevating the sound and color spectrum. ~ Brian McCrory, jazzofjapan.com. 

M & I Records, MYCJ-30620, 2012
Recorded 22nd, 23rd & 24th March, 2012 at Rainbow Studio, Oslo, Norway 

Musicians:
Ayumi Koketsu - Alto Saxophone, Arranger
Svein Olav Herstad - Piano
Magne Thormodsæter - Bass
Per Oddvar Johansen - Drums

Tracks:
01. With May {Ayumi Koketsu} (6:07)
02. Two Not One {Lennie Tristano} (4:57)
03. Bird Food {Ornette Coleman} (4:59)
04. Kayu {Ayumi Koketsu} (8:30)
05. Berkshire Blues {Randy Weston} (5:57)
06. Diversity {Ayumi Koketsu} (6:34)
07. Mikazuki {Ayaka, Yoshihiko Nishio} (5:57)
08. Near The Clouds {Ayumi Koketsu} (4:39)
09. Bewitched {Richard Rodgers} (7:29)
10. Summertime {George Gershwin} (6:55)
11. When Joanna Loved Me {Jack Segal, Robert Wells} (4:19) 

Total Time: 66:26 

Credits:
Producer, Supervisor - Hiro Yamashita
Executive-Producer - Ryuichi Sawazaki
Recording & Mixing - Jan Erik Kongshaug
Mastering - Shuji Nose
Art Direction, Design - Hiromi Adachi
Photography [Cover] - Arata Kato
Photography [Studio] - CF-Wesenberg
Liner Notes - Ayumi Koketsu 

Near The Clouds

Ayumi Koketsu - Balladist (2014)

This is Japanese jazz alto saxophonist Ayumi Koketsu's second in her New York series, the previous work "Brooklyn Purple". It is a collection of ballads with the support of top-notch New York musicians: pianist David Hazeltine, bassist David Williams and drummer Lewis Nash. Ayumi weaves an air of soft and smooth phrases that penetrate your heart, bringing forth a warm and enveloping atmosphere. The album is predominantly made up of well-known jazz standards with only two of Ayumi's own compositions. Essentially, the performance spins out phrases that soak in deep, creating a soothing album for all occasions, enjoy! 

M & I Records, MYCJ-30647, 2014
Recorded 29th, 30th & 31st July, 2014 at Systems Two, Brooklyn, New York City 

Musicians:
Ayumi Koketsu - Alto Saxophone
David Hazeltine - Piano
David Williams - Bass
Lewis Nash - Drums

Tracks:
1. Autumn In New York {Vernon Duke} (7:34)
2. The Good Life {Sacha Distel} (6:52)
3. Beatrix {Ayumi Koketsu} (5:13)
4. Dedicated To You {Cahn, Zaret, Chaplin} (7:44)
5. Flora {Ayumi Koketsu} (6:03)
6. Night Lights {Gerry Mulligan} (7:34)
7. Setembro {Peranzzetta, Lins, Winbush} (6:09)
8. Detour Ahead {Ellis, Frigo, Carter} (8:24) 

Total Time: 55:37 

Credits:
Producer - Hiro Yamashita
Executive-Producer - Ryuichi Sawazaki
Recording & Mixing Engineer - Max Ross
Mastering Engineer - Shuji Nose
Art Direction, Design - Mayumi Matsumura
Photography - Yuji Susaki, Takehiko Tokiwa 

Beatrix

Ayumi Koketsu - Brooklyn Purple (2013)

Combining beauty and ability, Ayumi Koketsu is an attractive item that has become a boom in recent years. Following the first overseas recording of the previous work, this is the first recording in New York, the center of jazz. The second overseas recording by Ayumi Koketsu, who has become a central figure among female saxophonists. A masterpiece that has been played in all directions by interacting with authentic veteran musicians. Here is her unstoppable evolution, expanding her range of expression with her debut soprano saxophone and continues to evolve. Five of the ten songs are by Ayumi Koketsu, the rest well-known jazz standards. All songs arranged by Ayumi Koketsu. [Translated from Japanese] 

M & I Records, MYCJ-30640, 2013
Recorded 20th, 21st June, 2013 in New York 

Musicians:
Ayumi Koketsu - Alto (#1-5,9,10), Soprano (#6-8)
David Hazeltine - Piano
David Williams - Bass
Willie Jones III - Drums 

Tracks:
01. Signs Of Autumn {Ayumi Koketsu} (5:32)
02. As What You Are {Ayumi Koketsu} (7:32)
03. Freight Trane {Tommy Flanagan} (3:27)
04. It's Easy To Remember {Richard Rodgers} (6:50)
05. Chase {Ayumi Koketsu} (5:09)
06. How Is The Weather {Ayumi Koketsu} (6:37)
07. Baily's Beads {Ayumi Koketsu} (6:38)
08. Calling You {Bob Telson} (5:40)
09. Jitterbug Waltz {Fats Waller} (6:31)
10. In A Mellow Tone {Duke Ellington} (6:33)

Total Time: 60:29

 It's Easy To Remember

Ayumi Koketsu - Art (2016)

Ayumi Koketsu never ceases to amaze. Since her 2010 debut with Struttin’, the traditionally inclined alto saxophonist has released an album every year and each one seems to out-do the previous. With her 2016 release Art, she pays tribute to one of the greatest of alto players, Art Pepper. Koketsu pulls all the stops to make a proper homage. She plays only Pepper-compositions or songs widely attributed to him. She is backed by an all-American rhythm section, players who are well versed in West Coast jazz despite residing in New York. In fact, she recorded the album in the Big Apple, a place where Pepper found a resurgence during the latter part of his career (encapsulated by his historic three days at the Village Vanguard). Although it would be easy to update these songs to fit a more contemporary sound, Koketsu sticks to tradition and plays these classics straight-ahead. This makes Art feel like a proper tribute to the man’s artistry. She captures Pepper’s sound so closely that you could swear it was an unreleased recording by Pepper during his prime. Her musical ideas never seem to let up as she blows through verse after verse of tight phrases. She even manages to master Pepper’s particular sense of trading fours, leading to a joyous interaction between her and veteran jazz drummer Mark Taylor. However, this is what makes Art problematic at times. Koketsu is no doubt a technically skilled player but it is hard to differentiate her from the legend she is honoring. All too often, it sounds like Koketsu trying to mimic Pepper's sound instead of throwing in her own flair, a style that has been evident in her previous albums. However, this does not make the album forgettable. Koketsu’s playing is rightfully tender and subdued, yet still gracefully passionate. Art leaves fans of Koketsu wanting more, especially since she has generated quite a bit of hype with jazz crowds. Still, Art is nothing more than a tribute to a man who has mastered Koketsu’s instrument, and what a fine tribute it is. Koketsu plays these tunes with never before heard assurance. It only leaves us hungry for her next outing…~ Extract by Nathan Nicolau, rokkupanku.wordpress.com. 

M & I Records, MYCJ-30653, 2016
Recorded 24th, 25th, 27th February, 2016 at Systems Two, Brooklyn, New York City 

Musicians:
Ayumi Koketsu - Alto Saxophone
Jeremy Manasia - Piano
Mike Karn - Bass
Mark Taylor - Drums

Tracks:
1. Cool Bunny {Art Pepper} (5:12)
2. Straight Life {Art Pepper} (4:28)
3. Imagination {Jimmy Van Heusen} (6:11)
4. Diane's Dilemma {Art Pepper} (4:57)
5. Bésame Mucho {Consuelo Velazquez} (6:02)
6. Holiday Flight {Art Pepper} (3:52)
7. Patricia {Art Pepper} (6:20)
8. When You're Smiling {Larry Shay} (4:54) 

Total Time: 41:57 

Credits:
Producer - Hiro Yamashita
Executive-Producer - Ryuichi Sawazaki
Engineer - Max Ross
Mastering - Yuta Tada
Release Coordinator - Tomoatsu Tamari
Art Direction, Design - Tadashi Kitagawa
Photography - Toru Kometani
Liner Notes [Art Pepper] - Ayumi Koketsu 

Diane's Dilemma

Ayumi Koketsu - Struttin' (2010)

In November 2010, as usual, the 6th Ginza International Jazz Festival was held, and at the 7th floor hall of the Ginza Yamano Musical Instruments Main Store, there was a live performance by the Ayumi Koketsu Quartet. I got one of the tickets from there, and I was allowed to accompany the performance. Ayumi Koketsu was born in Gifu Prefecture in 1988 and is a 21-year-old alto saxophonist. She started taking piano lessons at the age of 3 and became a jazz lover under the influence of her father. After graduating from high school, she attended Koyo Music Academy Nagoya School and started her live performances. Her performance has been well received, and her concert venues in Nagoya continue to be packed every day. And this time, her first album "Struttin'" was recorded. As you all know, there is a famous jazz record "Cool Struttin'", and it is said that her name is "Ayumi", so this album "Struttin'" was given this title. That's it. As you can hear, her alto saxophone performance ranges from ballads to up-tempo songs, and she sings well with beautiful and powerful tones. What surprises is her performance style, she literally sings cool and easy bebop blow, which is exactly cool struttin' itself and makes you feel the limitless future. Then, please listen to the beautiful alto ad-lib of the struttin' ballad played by the young lady. ~ ankle pop, 5 Stars, Amazon.com. [Translated from Japanese] 

M & I Records, MYCJ-30573, 2010
Recorded 17th & 18th February, 2010 at Hitokuchi-Zaka Studio, Tokyo, Japan 

Musicians:
Ayumi Koketsu - Alto Saxophone
Yoshihiko Naya - Piano
Masayuki Tawarayama - Bass
Mark Taylor - Drums

Tracks:
01. This I Dig Of You {Hank Mobley} (4:11)
02. Without A Song {Vincent Youmans} (4:58)
03. Kary's Trance {Lee Konitz} (4:16)
04. A Solar Eclipse {Ayumi Koketsu} (5:11)
05. I Fall In Love Too Easily {Jule Styne} (4:23)
06. The Kicker {Joe Henderson} (4:41)
07. I've Never Been In Love Before {Loesser} (4:53)
08. Orion {Rui Momota} (5:55)
09. Softly As In A Morning Sunrise {Sigmund Romberg} (5:27)
10. Del Sasser {Sam Jones} (6:33)
11. Blues Connotation {Ornette Coleman} (4:43) 

Total Time: 55:16 

Credits:
Producer - Hiro Yamashita, Yoshihiko Naya
Executive-Producer - Mitsuo Shimano
Recording & Mixing Engineer - Mizuo Miura
Engineer [Assistant] - Daisuke Takizawa
Mastering Engineer - Yuta Tada
Art Direction, Design - Yoshie Yokoyama
Photography [Artist Photos] - Mika Endo
Photography [Cover] - Hisayoshi Osawa
Liner Notes - Naoko Shimada 

Orion

Dusko Goykovich Quartet - Ten To Two Blues (1971)

This album is a Spanish DiscMedi Blau reissue edition of the original Ensayo release in 1971. It is considered one of Tete Montoliu's hard-to-find Ensayo releases, that has been remastered, reissued and reprinted for the first time in a long time with the original vinyl jacket! If you are a Dusko or Tete fan, take this opportunity to acquire a copy! It has also been released "After Hours" on Enya Records. However, that release has incorrect labelling of some of the tracks and credits. Essentially, this album showcases the pinnacle of European hard bop, that is full of high-powered playing by all musicians with deep and emotive execution! Tete Montoliu joins with the magnificent Yugoslavian trumpet player Duško Gojković to produce this fine album. It was recorded as a result of a friendly meeting between the two. It includes three Gojković compositions, one an undisputed blues tune, two standards and a percussive, almost Monkian blues by Tete Montoliu. Recorded in Barcelona, in November 1971, at the height of both players extensive careers. Here, Dusko teams up with the Montoliu trio, comprising of bassist Robert Langereis and drummer Joey Nay. Together they deliver an exciting lesson in what jazz should sound like performing a rigorous repertoire of compositions. This release is noted for Gojković's popular song "Old Fisherman's Daughter", where Dusko's sharp trumpet, Tete's piano that weaves and twists around it, along with Rob's roaring bass and Joe's concise drumming is a memorable highlight, enjoy! 

Ensayo Records, ENY-45, 1971
DiscMedi Blau, DM5183-02, 2015
Recorded 9th November, 1971 in Barcelona, Spain 

Musicians:
Dusko Goykovich - Trumpet
Tete Montoliu - Piano
Robert Langereis - Bass
Joe Nay - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Ten To Two Blues {Gojković} (7:01)
2. I Remember O.P. {Gojković} (5:13)
3. Old Fisherman's Daughter {Gojković} (8:35)
4. I Love You {Harry Archer, Harlan Thompson} (9:03)
5. The Child Is Born {Thad Jones} (3:39)
6. Blues To Line {Tete Montoliu} (8:21) 

Total Time: 41:52

 

Lanfranco Malaguti Quartet - Panorami (2011)

The title could be misleading, and so could the list of eleven tracks that follow the additive numbering system: Lanfranco Malaguti struck by various panoramas that musically inspired him. None of this, because the nineteenth work of the Roman guitarist is inspired by the painting of Renato Maurizio, an architect who synthesized on canvas the eleven landscapes (all present in the internal booklet) whose sound description is entrusted to this disc, written with four hands by the leader and by Luca Colussi. Panorami outlines a path made up of explorations, concerted on fiery and at times angry gusts of an avant-garde style, which give way to more velvety tones, but always careful not to get lost in the obvious. Geometrics in the balance kept at the right pace by Colussi's powerful drive that gives ease to Massimo De Mattia and Nicola Fazzini to be able to go down with foil with perfect tranquility, drawing what Renato Maurizio's brush has represented graphically. But it is Malaguti who makes clear that right restlessness through complex phrases, excellently constructed, playing on the backbeat and also alienating the score. Paradigms that leap, note after note and put the accent on the fact that the quartet is at its heart, without any flaws. Undoubtedly, a record to be listened to carefully, which may be difficult at first hearing, but whose interpretation lies in the works that inspired it. ~ Alceste Ayroldi, JazzItalia.net [Translated from Italian] 

Splasc(H) Records, CHD155.2, 2011
Recorded 4th February, 2011 at Artesuono Recording Studios, Cavalicchio-Udine-Italy 

Musicians:
Lanfranco Malaguti - Guitar
Nicola Fazzini - Alto & Soprano Saxophones
Massimo De Mattia - Flute
Luca Colussi - Drums, Percussion

Tracks:
01. Panorama I {Malaguti} (7:10)
02. Panorama II {Malaguti} (4:15)
03. Panorama III {Malaguti} (2:41)
04. Panorama IV {Malaguti} (5:31)
05. Panorama V {Malaguti} (4:47)
06. Panorama VI {Malaguti} (8:09)
07. Panorama VII {Luca Colussi} (1:46)
08. Panorama VIII {Malaguti} (1:02)
09. Panorama IX {Malaguti} (5:07)
10. Panorama X {Luca Colussi} (2:32)
11. Panorama XI {Malaguti} (3:08) 

Total Time: 46:13 

Panorama V

Noriko Kojima - Songs For My Sake (2011)

An ambitious work by Noriko Kojima, a jazz flutist who has many fans for her over 150 live performances a year. The second collection of original songs that can be said to be a sequel to the previous work "Lush Life" which gained popularity in 2009. Includes 8 original songs of the "Meishu Series" that express the taste of sake and the uniqueness of its name through sound. Kojima's original songs, which have a reputation as a composer, are both scenic and jersey, and can be enjoyed with impressive melodies and diverse rhythms. In addition, the standard number is Cole Porter's famous song " What Is This Thing Called Love? In addition, "For Heaven's Sake", an unaccompanied flute quartet with flute, piccolo, bass, alto, and four roles overdubbed by one person, is also included in her own arrangement. In addition to Noriko's persistent Trio; Katsuto Suzuki (b) and Yasukuni Mizuguchi (d), the album also includes guest musicians: Junichiro Ohkuchi (p), Kiichi Futamura (p), and Teiji Taguchi (g), who are also top players in the jazz scene. A heartfelt album that can be enjoyed not only by jazz fans and sake fans, but also by all music lovers. [Translated from Japanese] ~ www.kojinori.exblog.jp. 

What's New Records, WNCJ-2219, 2011
Recorded at Groove Studio, Matsudo, Saitama, Japan 

Musicians:
Noriko Kojima - Flute, Alto Flute, Bass Flute, Piccolo
Kiichi Futamura - Piano (#1-5)
Junichiro Ohkuchi - Piano (#7-11)
Teiji Taguchi - Guitar (#2,3,5)
Katsuto Suzuki - Bass (#1-5,7-11)
Yasukuni Mizuguchi - Drums (#1-5,7-11) 

Tracks:
01. What Is This Thing Called Love? {Cole Porter} (6:03)
02. Snow Notes {Noriko Kojima} (6:02)
03. Since We Met {Noriko Kojima} (7:22)
04. Lullaby Of Itsuki {Traditional Japanese} (4:29)
05. A Little Cascade {Noriko Kojima} (5:39)
06. For Heaven’s Sake {Meyer, Bretton, Edwards} (3:40)
07. Blues In The Sky {Noriko Kojima} (5:07)
08. Primaveral {Noriko Kojima} (5:56)
09. Not To Worry {Noriko Kojima} (4:39)
10. The Cool Kite {Noriko Kojima} (5:39)
11. October The First {Noriko Kojima} (5:31) 

Total Time: 60:07 

#6 is unaccompanied by Noriko with 4 flutes [over dubbing] 

Credits:
Producer, Engineer, Mastering - Hiroshi Sato
Producer - Yoshiaki Okayasu
Design - Takamu Watanuki

Takeo Moriyama Quartet - My Dear (1982) [vinyl]

A work released in 1982 by Takeo Moriyama, one of Japan's leading jazz drummers, who played an active role as a drummer in the free jazz-oriented Yosuke Yamashita trio, and of course excelled in his solo and quartet works. Despite the fact that it is clearly a free performance, it has a strong swinging groove and a free jazz sound with two lead drums that are percussive but melodious. A1 "Non Check" full of tension with fast tempo freaky saxophone, A2 "My Dear" with brushwork that keeps you down, and a dope bass that sinks in and a spiritual performance like a religious view. B1 "No More Apple" with a solid saxophone, and B2 "Stormy Silence" where two tenor pipes collide over drumming that crawls on the ground. Certainly, intense and difficult drumming. However, for some reason, Takeo Moriyama's drums have a mysterious charm that makes you feel the "melody" in the performance as if you understand the scale of each percussion instrument. ~ www.silenciamusicstore.net. [Translated from Japanese] 

Union Jazz, ULP-5504, 1982
Recorded 7th-10th May, 1982 at Teichiku Suginami Studio, Tokyo, Japan 

Musicians:
Takeo Moriyama - Drums
Toshihiko Inoue - Tenor Saxophone
Mikinori Fujiwara - Tenor & Soprano Saxophones
Hideaki Mochizuki - Bass 

Tracks:
A1. Non Check {Toshihiko Inoue} (9:28)
A2. My Dear {Toshihiko Inoue} (6:31)
B1. No More Apple {Toshihiko Inoue} (7:37)
B2. Stormy Silence {Toshihiko Inoue} (9:12) 

Total Time: 32:48 

Credits:
Producer - Genji Sawai
Executive-Producer - Toshio Imai
Engineer - Shinichi Kikuchi
Engineer [Assistant] - Hisao Kemori
Mastering - Shuji Sakaguchi
Photography - Shoh Kikuchi 

Non Check

Noriko Kojima - Lush Life (2008)

Here we have Noriko’s fourth album as a leader continuing on from Norinote (2005). For this album she along with guitarist Tomoo Yamaguchi join together in two quintet formations that incorporate six other fine Japanese musicians as listed below. Eight of the ten tunes are her own compositions with the other two jazz standards; I Hear A Rhapsody and Lush Life, the album’s title track. Like her previous works Noriko displays masterful skill as both a competent composer and brilliant musician. Equally much credit is due to the other players which compliment her playing perfectly with some wonderful soloing, enjoy! 

What'sNew Records, WNCJ-2196, 2009
Recorded 23rd & 27th November, 2008 

Musicians:
Noriko Kojima - Alto Flute, Flute, Piccolo Flute
Tomoo Yamaguchi - Acoustic Guitar 

#1,7-10
Kiichi Futamura - Piano
Katsuto Suzuki - Bass
Yasukuni Mizuguchi - Drums
#2-6
Junichiro Ohkuchi - Piano
Moriyoshi Sibuya - Bass
Shota Koyama - Drums 

Tracks:
01. I Hear A Rhapsody {George Fragos, Jack Baker} (6:33)
02. Bridge In The Afternoon {Noriko Kojima} (6:56)
03. For Better Days {Noriko Kojima} (6:44)
04. When The Moon Hugs The Shore {Noriko Kojima} (5:10)
05. Hototogisu～The Water Clock {Noriko Kojima} (7:21)
06. The Shade Of Wisteria {Noriko Kojima} (3:21)
07. Seven Ways To A Kiss {Noriko Kojima} (6:20)
08. Mythic Goblin {Noriko Kojima} (6:13)
09. Lush Life {Billy Strayhorn} (5:03)
10. Crane Is Flying In The Dream {Noriko Kojima} (6:22) 

Total Time: 60:13 

The Shade Of Wisteria

Live at JZ Brat (2009)

Mike Nock Quintet - Ozboppin' (1998)

Mike Nock has long been one of the most famous jazz musicians based in Australia, helped by the fact that he has visited the U.S. many times through the years. This CD begins with the most interesting selection, "Ozboppin'," which quickly goes from bop to Ornette Coleman, freer areas, and back to bop. Most of the other numbers alternate between melancholy ballads worthy of the mid-'60s Miles Davis Quintet to more heated numbers. Tim Hopkins on tenor recalls Wayne Shorter in spots, but has a fairly original tone, as does the talented young trumpeter Phil Slater; bassist Cameron Undy and drummer David Goodman are fine in support. With the exception of "Come Sunday" and "End of a Love Affair" (a ballad feature for Hopkins), all of the selections are Nock originals. A stimulating set of advanced hard bop. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG. 

Naxos Jazz, 86019-2, 1998
Recorded 24th & 25th January, 1998 at Sony Music Studios, Sydney, Australia 

Musicians:
Mike Nock - Piano
Phil Slater - Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Tim Hopkins - Tenor Saxophone
Cameron Undy - Bass
David Goodman - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Ozboppin' {Mike Nock} (5:13)
2. The Philosophers {Mike Nock} (5:19)
3. Five'll Getcha! {Mike Nock} (7:04)
4. Exile {Mike Nock} (9:26)
5. Snafu {Mike Nock} (6:21)
6. Dreamtime Visitor {Mike Nock} (6:00)
7. Come Sunday {Duke Ellington} (4:37)
8. The Emperor's Clothes {Mike Nock} (5:12)
9. End Of A Love Affair {Edward Redding} (5:12) 

Total Time: 54:28 

Credits:
Producer - Mike Nock
Engineer - Ross A'Hearn
Editing - Tod Deeley
Artwork - David Perry
Liner Notes - Adrian Jackson 

Five'll Getcha!

Noriko Kojima - It Might As Well Be Spring (2001)

If you like jazz flute, this is the person to hear 'Noriko Kojima’.
=========================
Anyone who claims to be an avid jazz fan and doesn't know who she is a loser. Of course, you can fully enjoy the mellowness and fuzzy feeling of the flute that diffused from her first album as a leader, the stately feeling behind her jazz as well is unchanged here. Her attention to detail, both in performance and composition, draws the listener’s attention. Also, the sideman whom enlarges the leader's intentions do so without being too assertive is also very wonderful! For example, when you wake up, ask yourself, 'What should I listen to today? ', and on days when I'm a little hesitant about choosing (laughs), I'll choose this album! It's an album that flicks the first jazz switch in the morning. ~ Dentymusic, amazon.com. [Translated from Japanese] 

What'sNew Records, WNCJ-2102, 2001
Recorded October, 2000 at Lake Yamanaka, Yamanakako, Japan 

Musicians:
Noriko Kojima - Flute, Alto Flute
Kiichi Futamura - Piano
Moriyoshi Shibuya - Bass
Shingo Yamaguchi - Drums 

Tracks:
1. I Thought About You {Jimmy Van Heusen} (6:56)
2. Those Spring Days {Noriko Kojima} (6:10)
3. Dat Dere {Bobby Timmons} (6:46)
4. It Might As Well Be Spring {Richard Rodgers} (6:31)
5. Light Snow In Spring {Noriko Kojima} (6:56)
6. Otters' Fest {Noriko Kojima} (6:49)
7. Di mana? {Noriko Kojima} (5:10)
8. Let's Cool One {Thelonious Monk} (7:13) 

Total Time: 52:31 

Di mana?

Pierre de Bethmann - Qui (2006)

For Pierre de Bethmann's second CD as a leader apart from his duties with the Moutin Reunion Quartet, he again sticks to playing the Fender Rhodes electric piano exclusively. Tenor saxophonist David El Malek is retained, as is drummer Franck Agulhon from De Bethmann's Ilium quintet. Complex melodies and time structures continue to signify their collective sound. For Oui, the ensemble is expanded to include second (alto) saxophonist Stéphane Guillaume and guitarist Michael Felberbaum. The difference maker is vocalist Jeanne Added, who sings no lyrics whatsoever, but employs scat, hums, oohs, and ahhs on every track. While an attractive and becoming vocalist, this unfortunately detracts from the overall variety of the project. Still, much startling original music is offered, such as the opener, "Shema," with its beefy, chunky melody in a whopping 14/8 time signature with sections going from animated to calming, back and forth, as well as the 5/4-driven, at times rockish beat over dueling saxophones of "Exo." There is a reflection of the modalities the mid-period Mahavishnu Orchestra utilized, as on the stairstepping "Singulier" contrasting Added's siren song, and the heavy 7/8 "Altération," which most readily approaches the '70s fusion movement. The most straight-ahead jazz tune, "Effet Tatillon," is a snaky, slinky line that weaves though road forks and U-turns. "Oui" is the most intricate and involved track, with De Bethmann and Felberbaum using wah-wah pedals, the two saxes reaching for upper levels, and the vocals as an afterthought. Added is most prevalent and expressive in tandem with El Malek during "Air Courbe," an ode to sky flight, and the vocal-dominant ballad "La Lentuer." Simply for variety's sake, it would be nice if she had sung a song. De Bethmann, clearly an extraordinary talent, does things his way, and one hopes he sticks to the Rhodes, perhaps exploring extensions of Herbie Hancock's Mwandishi or early Chick Corea and beyond. ~ by Michael G. Nastos, AMG. 

Nocturne Records, NTCD 404; 2007
Recorded 25th-27th September, 2006 at Studios de la Seine, Paris, France 

Musicians:
Pierre de Bethmann - Fender Rhodes
Stéphane Guillaume - Alto Saxophone
David El Malek - Tenor Saxophone
Michael Felberbaum - Guitar
Vincent Artaud - Double Bass
Franck Agulhon - Drums
Jeanne Added - Voices 

Tracks:
1. Shema {Pierre de Bethmann} (9:48)
2. Singulier {Pierre de Bethmann} (7:52)
3. Air Courbe {Pierre de Bethmann} (9:47)
4. Silnes {Pierre de Bethmann} (7:18)
5. Oui {Pierre de Bethmann} (8:16)
6. La Lenteur {Pierre de Bethmann} (3:15)
7. Exo {Pierre de Bethmann} (6:46)
8. Effet Tatillon {Pierre de Bethmann} (6:44)
9. Altération {Pierre de Bethmann} (8:04) 

Total Time: 67:50 

Credits:
Recording, Mixing - Philippe Teissier Du Cros
Mastering - Raphaël Jonin
Design Graphics - Renaud Barès
Photography - Gildas Boclé

Noriko Kojima - Norinote (2005)

Born in Meguro Ward, Tokyo. Noriko grew up listening to a lot of classical music, her engineer father played whilst working at home. At four with her older brother, she learned to play the violin. Later, while in college, she became interested in jazz and took up the flute. This led to entering the Musashino Conservatory of Music and after graduating, she studied under Yoshio Otomo, Toshihiko Inoue and Hirohiko Watanabe, all well-known Japanese jazz musicians. Today, she continues to play the flute, cherishing the warm tone and the groove feeling that uniquely lends itself to jazz. As a jazz musician she has developed an excellent sense of sound and improvisation; coupled with a fine understanding of melody, utilizing phrases that fly like the wind full of inimitable nuances. In 1987, she formed her own quartet and has gone on to interact with many musicians and perform many live performances. Essentially, her style imbues a deep and emotional groove articulated in her rich tone that is quite sublime. This album is her third as a leader and is joined by other fine Japanese musicians. Four of the nine tunes are her own compositions with the remainder a careful selection of popular jazz tunes. Overall, it is album that will continue to grow on any jazz flute enthusiast and any music lover, enjoy! 

What'sNew Records, WNCJ-2158, 2005 

Musicians:Noriko Kojima - Flute
Kiichi Futamura - Piano
Tomoo Yamaguchi - Guitar
Moriyoshi Shibuya - Bass
Junji Hirose - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Four O'Clock Train {Noriko Kojima} (6:15)
2. Vega {Noriko Kojima} (7:00)
3. Come Rain Or Come Shine {Harold Arlen} (6:38)
4. We'll Be Together Again {Carl Fischer} (6:05)
5. New York Bossa {Steve Grossman} (6:40)
6. Umbrellas Of Cherbourg {Michel Legrand} (6:07)
7. Sasanqua {Noriko Kojima} (7:43)
8. Black Panther In Johor Bahru {Noriko Kojima} (5:04)
9. Triste {Antônio Carlos Jobim} (7:21) 

Total Time: 58:53 

Black Panther In Johor Bahru

We Three Trio - The Gershwin Collection (2006)

The debut album of "We Three Trio", a piano trio unit led by Kuni Mikami, a Japanese pianist who has lived in New York for over 30 years. Kuni Mikami was trained by Barry Harris disciples and Norman Simmons, and was the last pianist of the Lionel Hampton Orchestra for nine years. He became a personal friend and was Lionel's last ally, both professionally and privately. At the same time, he is also enrolled in the Duke Ellington Orchestra led by Paul Ellington, and continues to perform at Tuesday Night Live at the NY Club "Birdland" (2006). In addition, he performed with the Cab Calloway Orchestra, which can be said to be the roots music of the 2005 trend of "jump n jive" music, and the now-defunct Illinois Jacquet big band. He continues to play an active role as a pianist. He often visits Japan with black female vocal guests. His fan base in Japan is also expanding. Akihiko Hasegawa (ds), a drummer who studied under Frank Gant, a bebop drummer who is an ally in NY and has a deep friendship with Kuni, and Takanashi, a talented bassist who prides himself on the Ron Carter style and has a friendship with Ron. This "We Three Trio" with Michio (b) has a "contemporary" taste (according to Kuni), which is different from the "Manhattan-style" jazz trio that Kuni and Mikami have practiced in their live performances. Appearing as a unit that also has the aspect of a piano trio, they challenged George Gershwin, the first and last difficult composer for a pianist. He performed with originality that is as good as the performances of many pianists, and appealed to the many "drawers" that overturned the image of Kuni and Mikami so far. Takanashi's bass is also deep, spinning out the essence of these classics and adding a new flavor. The drumming that expresses Hasegawa's straight personality has also been sublimated into a drumming that understands the expression as a "unit", and in the future, by repeating concerts in Japan, it will become even more attractive. ~ www.hmv.co.jp. [Translated from Japanese] 

What'sNew Records, WNCJ-2160, 2006 

Musicians:
Kuni Mikami - Piano
Michio Takanashi - Bass
Akihiko Hasegawa - Drums 

Tracks:
1. It Ain’t Necessarily So {5:47)
2. Embraceable You {5:32)
3. Somebody Loves Me {6:22)
4. A Sleepless Night {4:34)
5. I Got A Rhythm {4:03)
6. Isn’t It A Pity {7:12)
7. Rhapsody In Blue {5:21)
8. Summer Time {4:00)
9. The Man I Love {7:15) 

All compositions by George Gershwin 

Total Time: 50:06 

Summer Time

Kazuko Baba - I'll Keep Loving You (2006)

Japanese pianist Kazuko Baba was born in Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture. She is currently living back in Tokyo after spending nine years in New York. This is her second album and is the result of her progressive time well spent in New York. For the album she surrounds herself with a crack black American rhythm section in bassist David Williams and drummer Leroy Williams supplemented with guests: Japanese guitarist Satoshi Inoue and the renowned bassist Reggie Workman. She showcases seven of her own original tunes, works she composed during her daily life and performances in and around the Big Apple, as well as two favourite standards. This album sets the record straight, that she is indeed a prominent contender as a superlative modern jazz pianist. 

What'sNew Records, WNCJ-2172, 2006
Recorded 22nd August, 2005 at Kaleidoscope Sound, Union City, New Jersey 

Musicians:
Kazuko Baba - Piano
David Williams - Bass
Leroy Williams - Drums
Guests:
Satoshi Inoue - Guitar (#1,4)
Reggie Workman - Bass 

Tracks:
1. Unknown Story {Kazuko Baba} (7:57)
2. The Leaning Waltz {Kazuko Baba} (3:17)
3. Autumn Leaves {Joseph Kosma} (5:30)
4. Wandering On The Shore {Kazuko Baba} (6:38)
5. Illusion {Kazuko Baba} (7:15)
6. Dancing Dolls {Kazuko Baba} (6:12)
7. Air {Kazuko Baba} (7:35)
8. I’ll Keep Loving You {Bud Powell} (6:52)
9. Calm {Kazuko Baba} (3:44) 

Total Time: 55:00 

I'll Keep Loving You

Giampaolo Casati Trio - In Jazz (1994)

Italian trumpeter Giampaolo Casati was born in Genoa in 1959, and graduated from the "Niccolò Paganini" Conservatory of Genoa in 1985. Throughout his career, he has performed many concerts, teaching and arranger activities for both big band and other jazz combos. He has collaborated with many Italian and foreign musicians playing in major Italian, European, American and Asian festivals. He has participated in radio and television broadcasts, as well as in the production of soundtracks for cinema, theater and advertising. The first important collaborations date back to the 80s. These include Gianni Basso's "AT Big Band", Tullio De Piscopo's quartet, Riccardo Zegna Unit Line, the Keptorchestra feat Steve Lacy and Piero Odorici's quintet. In 1991, he founded, with Piero Leveratto, the "Bansigu Big Band", assuming its direction. In 1992, he was joined up with Giorgio Gaslini’s Great National Jazz Orchestra. Also, in 1992 he played in the Ralph Moore quintet, including Ben Riley, and in Natalie Cole's Big Band. In the same year he recorded, "Art Song", by Gianni Cazzola's Nuovo Sestetto Italiano. In 1994, he joined Mario Raia's Big Band which recorded "Ellington". At the same time, he records "Sweet Sixteen" with the Keptorchestra and Steve Lacy. This leads him to structure the Giampaolo Casati Trio. For this recording he is joined by two other revered Italian musicians, guitarist Alessio Menconi and bassist Rosario Bonaccorso. Together they showcase three Casati originals, two tunes by Italian pianist Riccardo Zegna, as well as a composition by Piero Leveratto a popular Italian bassist and the producer of this album. Included in the mix are two well-known compositions by Thelonious Monk and John Coltrane. Overall, the album truly displays the impeccable skills of all involved, hopefully Giampaolo will receive the recognition of a great trumpeter and composer beyond his continental fame, enjoy! 

Caligola Records, 2002-2, 1994
Recorded and mixed on 1st February 1994 at Gulliver Studio, Genova, Italy 

Musicians:
Giampaolo Casati - Trumpet
Alessio Menconi - Guitars:  Electric (#1,2,4,6,8,9), Acoustic (#3,5, Solo 7)
Rosario Bonaccorso - Bass 

Tracks:
1. Odd Girl {Piero Leveratto} (4:01)
2. Listen To The Bass {Antonio Faraò} (7:07)
3. Sily {Giampaolo Casati} (6:02)
4. Evidence {Thelonious Monk} (6:02)
5. Soft Feelings {Riccardo Zegna} (6:53)
6. Clifford's Mood {Giampaolo Casati} (6:09)
7. Naima {John Coltrane} (3:59)
8. Sant Lucy {Giampaolo Casati} (7:13)
9. Iris Blue {Riccardo Zegna} (5:38) 

Total Time: 53:04 

Credits:
Executive-Producer - Piero Leveratto
Cover Design - Luigi Voltolina
Booklet Photos - Alfredo Tabocchini
Liner Notes - Claudio Donà 

Clifford's Mood

Clark Terry - Trumpet & Flugelhorn (1974) [vinyl]

Clark Terry is an acknowledged master of improvisation. Because of his superb musicianship, he has long been in demand in concert halls, nightclubs and in major recording studios. His trumpet work is a perfect example of how it should be done on that instrument. And Clark has brought new and much deserved popularity to the flugelhorn. This album was conceived and designed for three reasons: to show other musicians exactly what the experts do with a chord progression; to provide teachers with exciting new material for the classroom; Preserve on record and paper the work of some of the best jazz musicians of this era. Songs include: Swedish Terrier * On the Trail * Hackensack * Smedley * Flintstones. ~ www.amazon.com. 

MMO Music Group, Inc., 671, 1974 

Musicians:
Clark Terry - Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Ron Odrich - Bass Clarinet
Don Friedman - PianoVictor Sproles - Bass
"Mousey" Alexander - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Swedish Terrier {Clark Terry} (4:46)
2. On The Trail {Ferde Grofé} (4:55)
3. Hackensack {Thelonious Monk} (3:27)
4. Smedley {Oscar Peterson} (3:43)
5. Flintstones {Hoyt Curtin} (4:21) 

Total Time: 21:12 

Credits:
Producer - Keith M. Perkins
Engineer - Jim Odrich

Incontro Con Don Cherry (1976)

aka Meeting with Don Cherry recorded live in Italy 1976 

A rare piece of footage of Don Cherry and his group playing live at Rai Television Studios, Italy in 1976. He is joined by the wonderful percussionist Nana Vasconcelos, guitar and flutist Gianpiero Pramaggiore as well as his wife Moky Cherry on percussion and tamboura. Towards the end of the session, the group is united with other family members to dance and chant to the music. An captivating and inspiring occasion, well worth engaging in. Both the music and video have been painstakingly put together for this post, enjoy! 

Personnel:
Don Cherry - Pocket Trumpet, Flute, Vocals +
Nana Vasconcelos - Percussion, Berimbau
Gianpiero Pramaggiore - Guitar, Flute
Moky Cherry - Percussion, Tamboura
+ family members 

Tracks:
Part 1 (20:32)
Part 2 (26:10) 

Total Time: 46:42 

Note:
Studio decorated with art by Moky Cherry
Original video edited to just include music.
WAV files trimmed, optimised and converted to FLAC

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