Album Review: Ride Five from Takashi Matsunaga

 

Album: Ride Five
Artist:  Takashi Matsunaga
Label:  Ride Five Label
Release Date:  July 6, 2026
Website:  www.takashimatsunaga.com

The pairing of pianist Takashi Matsunaga and bass player Christian McBride form an elegant choreography played off the cuff on Matsunaga's 2026 endeavor Ride Five.  Matsunaga initiates the call as McBride asserts rhythmic patterns that complement Matsunaga's statements.  Together, their dialogue is spontaneous while forming harmonious narrations that beckon the listener to be attentive during the recital.

"Air in Bloom" is the most abstract piece, combining disjointed keys with curtly ticking notes from the bass, creating erratic pulses, coursing random patterns, and moving into the warm and slow simmer of "Unfolding Drops," as the bass and keys swivel and bubble softly.  Their rapport demonstrates an adaptability that is organic, loaded with agility and elasticity.  The pair boast an active mindset in "Pure, Becoming," continuously shifting and blending each other's anecdotes, producing an engaging tale.  Their active interaction moves the recording forward along "One, Becoming," generating friction and tenacity between the pair.

The duo of Matsunaga and McBride turns seven tracks of improvised patterns into seven distinct tales.  Each of their voices are agile, adaptable, and determined,  A prolific pianist, composer, educator, and music theorist, Takashi Matsunaga creates an openness that allows McBride's voice to participate in the collection.  Their teamwork is inspiring, forming a spontaneous choreography that beckons listeners.

Musicians:
Takashi Matsunaga - piano
Christian McBride - bass