Ryo Fukui – Mellow Dream LP

Description

2021 repress. New “regular edition” on 140 gram vinyl. We Release Jazz (WRWTFWW Records’ new sister-label) present the official reissue of criminally overlooked Japanese jazz gemMellow Dreamby Hokkaido pianist wunderkindRyo Fukui, originally released in 1977. Released in conjunction with the its legendary predecessor 1976’sScenery(WRJ 001CD/LP/LTD-LP). Firmly standing on the foundation he laid down withScenery, Ryo Fukui continues his exploration of modal, bop, and cool jazz sounds with meticulous grace and absolute mastery. As its title suggests,Mellow Dreamventures into slightly mellower, more soulful, and sometimes more contemplative territories (theBill Evans-reminiscent “Mellow Dream” and “My Foolish Heart”) while still packing the commanding punch Fukui’s work is loved for, as heard on the amazingly bombastic “Baron Potato Blues” or the giganticMcCoy Tyner/John Coltrane-influenced “Horizon” which sees each member of the trio —Satoshi Denpois on bass andYoshinori Fukuiis on drums — demonstrating their virtuosity for nine exhilarating minutes. With his sophomore album, Ryo Fukui swings from melancholy to vibrant joy with ease, and reminds you that jazz is best served with a pinch of blues, and displays an immensely rare combination of pure talent, unique personal approach and focused discipline. The man undeniably deserves a spot in the pantheon of all-time great jazz pianists. After releasing the outstandingSceneryandMellow Dreamback-to-back, Ryo Fukui worked on developing his live skills, often performing at Sapporo’s Slowboat Jazz Club (which he co-founded with his wifeYasuko Fukui), and even releasing two live albums. He sadly passed away in March 2016, leaving behind a legacy of works that all jazz lovers should explore. Sourced from the original masters. Mastered at half speed; 140 gram vinyl; includes sticker.