Jazztronik – Samurai

This is actually a compilation of tracks from two albums, Nanairo and Set Free. Also, I don't know about the CD, but the version of Phoenix included on the vinyl is actually the 12" version.

One of the greatest groups from Japan in recent years! The package pulls together tunes from the expensive import Set Free, plus other singles and assorted bits -- into one tasty 12 track set that offers up the Japanese Jazztronik groove at a price that's a lot more affordable for those of us on the lower end of the economic spectrum! Keyboardist Ryo Nozaki is at the helm of all tracks -- working beautifully in both acoustic and electric shades of tone -- and some tracks feature full arrangements with lots of jazzy instrumentation, while others kick back into a more atmospheric groove.

The expectations for the latest album from Japanese keyboard maestro Ryota Nozaki were raised when the title track made 15th spot in Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide 2004 all-winners. Surely this was fighting above weight for a track that appeared on a 12” on Brighton’s Disorient label? It may well have been but marvellously for us though, there are ten cutting edge killer tracks on this CD. Of the 78 minutes, for me there’s only 4 minutes 50 seconds that drop below top standard, ‘Intro’ (1.02) and ‘The Piano’ (3.48). So getting that small gripe out of the way, this is the best Jap jazz that I’ve heard for a very long time. You’ll find more unadulterated praise will follow this CD as Ryota’s sun rises in the West. Especially as there’s a European tour planned and Peterson last night slipping in a track from his next Japanese release!