''Subaqueous'' is another way of saying ''existing, formed, or taking place in or under water.''

Stillness is key on opener 'Ruins'. Perhaps that's not a surprise if you take the title naming conceit to its logical conclusion. The work of the avant-garde and highly serious Japanese pianist Ayumi Tanaka who lives in Norway and made a firm impression on the fine Thomas Strønen album Bayou released earlier in 2021, the trio is a passive vehicle for the leader. Bassist Christian Meaas Svendsen is starkly scything in response on 'Black Rain' a piece that is both harrowing and intense. Per Oddvar Johansen on drums, familiar from his work with Helge Lien, starts to make his presence felt on the second 'Ruins' track.

Tanaka has a very original sound in the sparse and weighty avant-garde traditions of the Masabumi Kikuchi-like world compellingly entered into and isn't afraid to manipulate silence for effect. But the trio is mostly underused. A solo piano album from Tanaka might be more interesting. The title track at the end has a serenity which is the album's calling card and is easily the best track and certainly where the bassist at the very least is best heard. SG