Michiko Akao
Kazamai - Wind Dance
Toshiba Records (Japan) 1981
TP-80148 (LP) Promotional copy. White label. w/insert, flyer.
sleeve : VG+(SRW, dirts)
media : EX+/EX+(some slightly noise)
The second album by Japanese female transverse-flute player Michiko Akao, released in 1981 and produced by jazz musician Chikara Ueda. Known for her flexible approach that extended far beyond the traditional framework of gagaku, Akao also performed with major orchestras including the San Francisco Symphony and the Philadelphia Orchestra under Seiji Ozawa. The backing is provided by Chikara Ueda & Power Station. Throughout the album, the delicate, soft tones of the shinobue and ryuteki carry deeply evocative melodies over crossover-jazz arrangements, creating a distinctive Japonisme fusion sound. Among Akao’s recordings, this is perhaps her most groove-oriented work. A2 and B4 are especially outstanding examples of breezy fusion, combining traditional Japanese timbres with mellow grooves and beautifully crafted production. Includes a rare promotional flyer distributed at the time of release.
A2: 悠凪 ゆうなぎ
B4: 海言便 かいげんびん