SATOKO FUJII GEN “Altitude 1100 Meters”

ARTIST

Satoko Fujii

ALBUM TITLE

“Altitude 1100 Meters”

LABEL

Libra

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An unusual and ambitious release from the prolific Satoko Fujii – in fact, a unique one. For the first time, the Japanese pianist has written for strings, here assembled as a classical quartet with double bass rather than cello, to which she adds her own piano and drums. “For some reason I can’t explain,” Fujii notes, “the sound of strings touches my heart deeply, activating a part of my brain that is totally different from that of other instruments.” The result is a strikingly original album, one that moves continuously between contemporary “cultured” language and moments of unabashedly jazz-inflected freedom.

The program comprises five medium-to-long tracks, with standout moments in the second, third, and closing pieces. Morning Sun begins with a sorrowful string melody, soon joined by piano and drums, while the bass steers the music into more distinctly jazz territory. Early Afternoon builds around an intermittent crescendo from the strings – sometimes physical, sometimes impetuous – creating an almost overwhelming sense of drive. Finally, Twilight opens with drums alone, their effervescence gradually tempered by the entry of the strings, which bring a docile, delicate, and elusive quality. The piano then returns to bind the piece together in a compelling conclusion.

Altitude 1100 Meters is an album of undeniable interest and creative vitality – another testament to Fujii’s restless imagination and her ability to expand her art into new terrains.

—Alberto Bazzurro

DISTRIBUTED BY

librarecords.com

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