One of Masabumi Kikuchi's best known compositions in a new farewell version 'Little Abi' is on the remarkable Hanamichi that is streaming ahead of the album's 16 April release on the new Red Hook label. One of six solo performances, the final studio recording by the great pianist, is jaw dropping and inspiring. Such intimacy, pure gestalt, concision, succinctness and above all sense of space delineated, it is humbling to listen and feel the music's presence.
Photo: Tae Cimarosti/Red Hook
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Worth noting because it is rare that a fairly new UK jazz act make the top part of the Official UK jazz and blues chart. Usually it is vintage reissues or compilations that achieve that feat.
On our radar back in the autumn when singles from Freedom Fables (Strut) began to emerge, Leeds/London collective Nubiyan Twist have energy and drive in quantity. Check out 'Tittle Tattle' from the release that features the Anita Baker-loving singer Cherise. The album also includes a guest slot from alto sax star/MC Soweto Kinch on the soulfully grooving 'Buckle Up'. The Twist are new in at no. 2 in the Official Jazz & Blues Albums Chart Top 30.