A must-have for any fan of Japanese Jazz; Ryo Fukui's self-taught brilliance is on full display in his debut record 'Scenery'. Primarily comprised of Jazz standards, Fukui still manages to cultivate a unique kind of charm and timelessness - which has cemented 'Scenery's position as a seminal jazz classic and its firm position in my summertime record rotation. - Lara
Unquestionably one of the most important Japanese jazz albums ever recorded, Scenery reveals Ryo Fukui as a miraculously brilliant self-taught pianist fusing modal, bop, and cool jazz influences for a very personal, dexterous and game-changing take on classic standards made famous by Bing Crosby and John Coltrane among others. From "It Could Happen To You" and its serene and calm intro which magically flows into a jubilant and upbeat piece, to the out-of-this-world piano solo of "Early Summer", or the incredible teamwork of "Autumn Leaves" where Fukui leads Satoshi Denpo (bass) and Yoshinori Fukui (drums) into groove heaven, every single note on the album oozes precision, confidence and flair and every single section slides seamlessly into one another, creating a supreme and elegant blend of jazz. Often compared to McCoy Tyner or Bill Evans, Ryo Fukui was a genius in his own right, a true master of his craft whose perfectionism gave birth to some of the greatest music ever recorded. Scenery is his magnum opus and an absolute must-have.
Tracklist
- It Could Happen To You
- I Want To Talk About You
- Early Summer
- Willow Weep For Me
- Autumn Leaves
- Scenery