88 ivories and infinite ideas…
Piano legend Satoko Fujii gives 8 solo readings of originals, all sounding spontaneous and organic. Each piece sounds like an impressionistic water color, even using harplike strings on “Hoffen” and “Invisible” to add space and delicately eerie atmospheres. Her fingers range from an intense and dissonant “Ernesto” to a whimsical and personal “Beginning” while she lurks around the corner on
”Expanding”. Hints of Bud Powell roots are heard on the dark “Quarantined” with chamber moods reflecting on the dynamic “Cluster”. Broad and thin strokes of the brush.
Gregg Karukas gives a romantic recital, balancing mostly between originals and Brazilia on this joyful collection of 15 songs. There are three interpretations of Milton Nascimento, with rich pastoral moods on “Travessia” and cheerful flowing on “Ponta de Areia”. Dori Caymmi’s “Historia Antia” is filled with cheer while deep serenades are felt on “Nascente”. Karukas’ own “Serenata” is a gracious reflection and calm waters prevail on “Lament (Final Embrace) and “Long Ago”. Does he also write lyrics?