Hozan Yamamoto / Quatre Oiseaux “Le Japon Aux Quatre Saisons”

Released in 1980, this album under the name Quatre Oiseaux features the renowned shakuhachi player, Kunzan Yamamoto, who achieved great success not only in classical performance but also in contemporary endeavors. The album showcases improvisations expressing the surrealism of Japan's four seasons through a quartet featuring leading player Ryo Noda, guitarist Sadanori Nakamure, and bassist Yasuo Arakawa, transcending genres. From the fantasy of springtime birds chirping like flutes from various countries such as Bolivia, India, and Brazil, one is immediately immersed in that world, particularly through track A1. Hozan’s integration with nature is complete, reaching a sublime state. The recording captures the differences in reverberation between each instrument, enhancing the experience. Without a doubt, this album is a masterpiece, highly recommended without reservation.

A1: 春〜小鳥の幻想〜