Album Review: Trio Vol. VI from Takeshi Asai

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Album:  Trio Vol. VI
Artist:  Takeshi Asai
Label:  Fono Bono Records
Websites: http://www.takeshiasai.com/index.html
http://triov6.takeshiasai.com
http://epk.takeshiasai.com

Trio Vol. VI, the 6th trio album from pianist-arranger-composer-producer Takeshi Asai showcases his versatility as a jazz improviser, a straight-ahead jazz raconteur, and a torch song balladeer.  Joined by his longtime partners, bassist Bob Gingery and drummer Brian Woodruff, Asai takes audiences along a series of vignettes clad in daydreaming reflections and expressive phrasing.  The album includes 9 original compositions written by Takeshi, many of whom are dedicated to popular figures, and one popular song, "Fire and Rain" penned by James Taylor.

A conceptual orator, Asai's performance affects listeners powerfully, rousing their mental sensibilities to conceive picturesque landscapes along the lulling swells of "Iota" and "Mes Demoiselles," which is dedicated to Pablo Picasso.   Other tunes like "Air on the White Keys," which honors J.S. Bach, "CΔ/Db" and "Yonder" are reflective pieces, spurring listeners to turn introspective and examine their innermost thoughts.  The upbeat rhythmic patterns of "WI" have the opposite effect, inspiring listeners to look outward, inspecting the liveliness of the world around them.


Asai wedges buoyant improvisations around the main themes of Franz Schubert's "Ave Maria" on his track "Ave Marta," a track that he dedicates to Schubert.  The meditative musings are partnered with a sprinting cotillion-like dance.  His interpretation of James Taylor's hit song "Rain and Fire," which he dedicates to actress Martha Plimpton, coalesces a folksy storytelling versing with twinkling improvisations and finely groomed punctuations that really rekindle this novelty tune.

Trio Vol. VI from Takeshi Asai celebrates the crystal clarion tones of the piano keys, communicating meaningful stories and impressions to audiences.  His melodic vignettes stimulate mental sensibilities and have a positive effect on listeners.

Musicians:
Takeshi Asai - piano
Bob Gingery - bass
Brian Woodruff - drums

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