Review by Vic Mendes

The Aki Takase Trio's album, "Aki," is a mesmerizing collection of jazz compositions that showcase the trio's incredible musicality and creativity. From the opening track, "Hokusai," to the closing number, "Kuroda Bushi," the trio takes listeners on a journey through the rich and varied landscape of jazz.

The album features Takase on piano, Christian Weber on bass, and Michael Griener on drums. Together, they create a sound that is both intricate and accessible, blending elements of traditional jazz with avant-garde improvisation. The trio's chemistry is evident throughout the album, as they seamlessly weave in and out of each other's playing, creating a cohesive and dynamic sound.

One standout track is "Ichigo Ichie," which features Takase's beautiful piano work and a driving bass line from Weber. Griener's drumming is also particularly impressive on this track, as he effortlessly shifts between different rhythms and tempos. Another highlight is "Futatsu No Kao," which begins with a haunting piano melody and builds to a frenetic climax.

Summary by Vic Mendes

"Aki" is a must-listen for jazz fans, and a testament to the incredible talent of the Aki Takase Trio. From start to finish, the album is a captivating and enjoyable listening experience that showcases the trio's unique sound and musical vision.