"Live! In Tokyo" by Bobby Enriquez is a dynamic and exhilarating journey into the world of hard bop and bebop, captured during the pianist's electrifying 1982 tour of Japan. This album, released in 1989, showcases Enriquez's virtuosic piano skills alongside the tight, responsive rhythm section of bassist Isoo Fukui and drummer Shinji Mori. The trio tears through a diverse set of standards and original compositions, demonstrating Enriquez's boundless energy and inventive approach to jazz.
The album opens with the fiery "Killer Joe," setting the tone for the high-octane performance that follows. Enriquez's playing is characterized by its speed, intensity, and technical brilliance, as evidenced by his breakneck tempos on "Airegin" and "Donna Lee." He fearlessly reimagines "Misty" as a double-time bop tune and transforms Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Meditation" into a swinging jazz vehicle. The setlist also includes well-known standards like "After Hours," "Groovin' High," and "Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise," as well as the original "Del Sasser" and "Could It Be Magic."
Enriquez's playing is not just about technical prowess; it's also deeply expressive and swinging. His interpretations of familiar tunes are fresh and exciting, while his original compositions showcase his compositional skills. The interplay between Enriquez, Fukui, and Mori is exceptional, with each musician contributing to the collective energy and drive of the performance.
"Live! In Tokyo" is a testament to Bobby Enriquez's mastery of the piano and his ability to lead a trio through a thrilling and engaging live performance. The album's 15 tracks, clocking in at just over an hour and ten minutes, offer a comprehensive look at the pianist's style and approach to jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan of hard bop or a newcomer to the genre, "Live! In Tokyo" is sure to impress with its virtuosic playing, inventive arrangements, and infectious swing.
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