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WILDFLOWER is an exotic addition to the discography of jazz pianist Keiko Matsui. Known predominately as a smooth jazz artist, Matsui has released over a dozen CDs in the US since 1986 and has become known for her sparse, evocative piano compositions that float over sweeping, majestic chords. While her last few albums ventured closer to New Age music, WILDFLOWER makes a surprising move toward sophisticated dance/lounge grooves. The first track, "Flashback," incorporates textural sound treatments with Matsui's reserved piano playing, creating a tension that captivates the listener for the entire album. "Facing Up, " the song on the album that comes closest to pop, features unusual vocal samples and a pulsating, dance-friendly beat. Before the party gets too raucous, "Brand New Wind" slows the tempo a bit, but delivers a classic, expressive Matsui performance. While WILDFLOWER may veer into electronica, it does not do so at the expense of Matsui's signature sound. Long-time fans of Keiko Matsui will enjoy listening to WILDFLOWER for its soothing, melodic jazz instrumentals, while new listeners are sure to be attracted to her fresh, contemporary sound.
Recorded at Sound Dali, Yamaha Ikebukuro, H.Y., Planet Joy Studios, Tokyo, Japan in 2003.
Personnel: Keiko Matsui (piano); Kazu Matsui (shakuhachi); Masamichi Nanji, Shinobu Ishizaki (soprano saxophone); Akira Jimbo (drums, percussion); Derek Nakamoto, Hajime Hyakkoku, Heigo Yokouchi, Kazunori Miyake (programming).
Audio Mixer: Tatsuhito Naruse.
Recording information: H.Y. Studio (06/2003-07/2003); Planet Joy Studio, Tokyo, Japan (06/2003-07/2003); Sound Dali (06/2003-07/2003); Yamaha Ikebukuro (06/2003-07/2003).
Photographer: Shuichi Tsunoda.
Arrangers: Derek Nakamoto; Hajime Hyakkoku; Heigo Yokouchi; Kazunori Miyake.
Personnel: Keiko Matsui (piano); Shinobu Ishizaki, Masamichi Nanji (soprano saxophone); Kazu Matsui (shakuhachi); Tomohito Aoki (bass); Akira Jimbo (drums, percussion).
Keiko Matsui - Wildflower Songs
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