St. Louis Blues

Album Description

Dive into the rich tapestry of jazz with Aki Takase's "St. Louis Blues," a captivating exploration of avant-garde and free jazz released in 2001. This album, recorded over three days in July 2001 at Studio Vagnsson, is a testament to Takase's virtuosity and her unique interpretation of classic blues themes. The album features twelve tracks, including iconic pieces like "St. Louis Blues" and "Memphis Blues," alongside original compositions that showcase Takase's innovative spirit.

"St. Louis Blues" is not just a collection of songs but a journey through the evolution of blues and jazz. Takase's piano playing is both powerful and delicate, seamlessly blending traditional blues structures with avant-garde improvisations. The album's diverse tracklist, which includes pieces like "Eine Drehorgel aus dem 21. Jahrhundert" and "Jazz Ain't What It Used to Be," highlights Takase's ability to push the boundaries of jazz while paying homage to its roots.

The album comes in a 3-panel digipak with insightful liner notes, providing context and depth to the music. Featured performers, including Fred Frith, add layers of complexity and texture to the recordings, making "St. Louis Blues" a standout release in Takase's discography. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a fresh and engaging perspective on the blues tradition.

1 januari 2001

2001 Enja Records Werner Aldinger

About Aki Takase

Aki Takase is a pioneering Japanese jazz pianist and composer who has made a significant impact on the global music scene. Born in Osaka in 1948, Takase began playing piano at the tender age of three and honed her skills at the prestigious Toho Gakuen Academy in Tokyo. Her musical journey took her to Germany, where she spent many years, and later to Berlin, which became her long-time residence. Takase is known for her innovative approach to jazz, blending it with classical and avant-garde elements to create a unique and captivating sound.

Her discography is a testament to her versatility and creativity, featuring works like "St. Louis Blues," "Hokusai - Piano Solo," and "Goldfish." One of her standout projects is "Carmen Rhapsody," where she masterfully reimagines Bizet's iconic opera, merging opera and adventurous jazz. This project showcases her ability to push musical boundaries and offer fresh interpretations of classic works. Takase's music is not just about notes and rhythms; it's about storytelling and emotional depth, making her performances a must-experience for any jazz enthusiast.