I missed her LA gigs the first time around, but judging by this “live” recording of her trio with bassist Del Atkins and drummer Bobby Breton, I missed a fun night. Mabuchi has great chops and a sense of jazz tradition, but with Atkins’ electric bass she adds a more soulful R&B feel to pieces such as “A Night In Tunisia” while Breton’s high hat sizzles after Atkins’ opening to “Giant Steps”. Mabuchi’s touch is pretty and clear on the dreamy “Japanese Medley” and has fun with a Latinized take of “Sukiyaki”. Her voice is confident when she sings and gives a strong edge to “So Danco Samba” while going delicate and romantic on “Softly as in a Morning Sunrise”. I won’t miss her second time around!