The Squid's Ear Magazine
Satoko Fujii & Natsuki Tamura's Libra Label

Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii, along with trumpeter Natsuki Tamura, run the Libra label, which for two decades has released their work in collaboration with a remarkable list of improvisers from around the world. From solos and duos to large ensemble work, their music runs the gamut from frenetic improvisation to beautifully lyrical work, with keys ensembles including Gato Libre, Satoko Fujii New York Orchestra, Natsuki Tamura Quartet, Satoko Fujii Orchestra Berlin, Kaze, Satoko Fujii Trio, Junk Box, and Satoko Fujii Orchestra Tokyo.



 
Double Duo (Verploegen / Mengelberg / Tamura / Fujii): Crossword Puzzle
Double Duo (Verploegen / Mengelberg / Tamura / Fujii):
Crossword Puzzle

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

A challenging live quartet made of two duos: trumpet & piano, with Satoko Fujii & Misha Mengelberg at the former and Angelo Verploegen & Natsuki Tamura at the latter.

Fujii / Tamura / Sharp / Kato: In the Tank
Fujii / Tamura / Sharp / Kato:
In the Tank

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock
Fujii Orchestra, Satoko: South Wind
Fujii Orchestra, Satoko:
South Wind

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $18.95    




In Stock

Satoko Fujii Orchestra in original compositions, an amazing lineup of mostly New York players including Steven Bersteain, Herb Robertson, Briggan Krause, etc.

Fujii, Satoko Quartet: Angelona
Fujii, Satoko Quartet:
Angelona

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $13.95    




In Stock
Fujii Quartet, Satoko: Minerva
Fujii Quartet, Satoko:
Minerva

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock
Fujii, Satoko Quartet : Vulcan
Fujii, Satoko Quartet :
Vulcan

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock
Fujii Trio, Satoko : Trace A River
Fujii Trio, Satoko :
Trace A River

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Satoko Fujii's excellent trio with Mark Dresser on bass and Jim Black on drums: spiritous, technically impressive, melodically and conceptually adventurous music not to miss!

Fujii, Satoko / Bley, Paul: Something About Water
Fujii, Satoko / Bley, Paul:
Something About Water

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

8 remarkable and collaborative duets from pianists Satoko Fujii and free jazz legend Paul Bley, and 3 lovely solo pieces of extended technique and color.

Fujii, Satoko Min-Yoh Ensemble: Watershed
Fujii, Satoko Min-Yoh Ensemble:
Watershed

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

After studying jazz and classical music, pianist Satoko Fujii became interested in Min-Yoh, which means folk music in Japanese; this is her 2nd lovely and powerful release with her Min-Yoh Ensemble.

Fujii, Satoko New Trio: Spring Storm
Fujii, Satoko New Trio:
Spring Storm

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

A set of new trio compositions from pianist Satoko Fujii with bassist Todd Nicholson and drummer/percussionist Takashi Itani, a magnificent set of compositions for the transformative season.

Fujii, Satoko New York Orchestra: Shiki
Fujii, Satoko New York Orchestra:
Shiki

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Satoko Fujii's amazing Orchestra New York returns with a composition that she describes as "a picture that extends beyond the canvas", performed with Oscar Noriega, Briggan Krauss, Ellery Eskelin, Tony Malaby, Andy Laster, Herb Robertson, Steven Bernstein, &c &c.

Fujii, Satoko Orchestra New York: ETO
Fujii, Satoko Orchestra New York:
ETO

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Satoko Fujii Orchestra New York in a work based on the Chinese zodiac, referred to as "Eto", in a celebration of husband and trumpeter Natsuki Tamura's 60th birthday, and of the 12 animals of the zodiac.

Fujii, Satoko Orchestra New York: Summer Suite
Fujii, Satoko Orchestra New York:
Summer Suite

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Satoko Fujii's 15-piece Orchestra New York with an all-star cast including Ellery Eskelin, Tony Malaby, Herb Robertson, Steve Berstein, Joe Fiedler, &c. &c.

Fujii, Satoko Orchestra Tokyo: Zakopane
Fujii, Satoko Orchestra Tokyo:
Zakopane

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Pianist-composer Satoko Fujii's Orchestra Tokyo formed in 1999 to perform her compositions, music that spans a wide range of styles and moods, complemented by a great set of soloists.

Fujii, Satoko Tobira: Yamiyo Ni Karasu
Fujii, Satoko Tobira:
Yamiyo Ni Karasu

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Pianist Satoko Fujii's Tobira ("door") expands the original trio configuration of Todd Nicholson on bass and Takashi Itani on drums, with trumpeter/husband Natsuki Tamura, playing inventive free improvisation with sophistication in melodic heads and superb soloing.

Fujii, Satoko: Gen Himmel
Fujii, Satoko:
Gen Himmel

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

A hauntingly beautiful set of solo piano works from Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii, subtle work that belies her incredible techincal skill through beautifully paced and meditative music.

Gato Libre (Tamura / Fujii / Tsumura / Koreyasu): Shiro
Gato Libre (Tamura / Fujii / Tsumura / Koreyasu):
Shiro

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Trumpeter Natsuki Tamura & bassist Norikatsu Koreyasu's Gato Libre with Satoko Fujii on accordion and guitarist Kazuhiko Tsumara, in their 4th release, beautifully melodic improvisation.

Gato Libre: DuDu
Gato Libre:
DuDu

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

The first Gato Libre release since the passing of bassist Norikatsu Koreyasu, adding trombonist Yasuko Kaneko alongside leader Natsuki Tamura on trumpet, Satoko Fujii on accordion, and Kazuhiko Tsumura on guitar, for eight beautiful, melodic "free cat" recordings.

Gato Libre: Forever
Gato Libre:
Forever

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

The 5th release from the Japanese quartet of trumpeter Natsuki Tamura, Satoko Fujii, here on accordian, the late bassist Norikatsu Koreyasu, and guitarist Kazuhiko Tsumura, beautiful free form improvisation performed live in concert in 2011.

Gato Libre: KURO
Gato Libre:
KURO

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Natsuki Tamura and Satoko Fujii's Gato Libre in their fourth seductive album of jazz based on European folk melodies with some of the coolest accordion playing on the planet.

Junk Box (Tamura / Fujii / Hollenbeck): Cloudy Then Sunny
Junk Box (Tamura / Fujii / Hollenbeck):
Cloudy Then Sunny

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Satoko Fujii's latest Junk Box with Natsuki Tamura and John Hollenbeck is an amazing jazz album of extended technique, instrumentation and expressive, dramatic ideas

Junk Box (Tamura / Fujii / Hollenbeck): Fragment
Junk Box (Tamura / Fujii / Hollenbeck):
Fragment

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock
Kaze: Tornado
Kaze:
Tornado

(Circum-Libra -- Japan/France )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

With two trumpets, drums and piano, Kaze's 2nd release with Satoko Fujii, Natsuki Tamura, and Muzzix members Christian Pruvost and Peter Orins, hits like the album title, but surprises with contrasts from torrential power to beautiful melodic interplay.

Kaze: Uminari
Kaze:
Uminari

(Circum-Libra -- Japan/France )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Natsuki Tamura & Christian Pruvost on trumpets, Satoko Fuji on piano and Peter Orins on drums for a quartet where all members are active compositional contributors, creating a powerful ensemble sound with strong soloing using modern creative techniques; excellent!

Tamura, Natsuki / Fujii, Satoko: Chun
Tamura, Natsuki / Fujii, Satoko:
Chun

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Intricately melodic and wonderfully ecstatic duos from trumpeter Natsuki Tamura and pianist Satoko Fujii improvising on 9 Fujii compositions.

Tamura, Natsuki / Satoko Fujii: Clouds
Tamura, Natsuki / Satoko Fujii:
Clouds

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

With each track named after a type of cloud, Satoko Fujii and partner Natsuki Tamura's delicate and engaging impressionistic colors and rumblings.

Tamura, Natsuki / Satoko Fujii: MUKU
Tamura, Natsuki / Satoko Fujii:
MUKU

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Trumpeter Tamura and pianist Fujii return to the duo they've been recording for more than 15 years to explore a more quiet and lyrical side of their collaboration by reimagining compositions originally written for Tamura's Gato Libre quartet.

Tamura, Natsuki Quartet: Exit
Tamura, Natsuki Quartet:
Exit

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $18.95    




In Stock
Tamura, Natsuki Quartet: Hada Hada
Tamura, Natsuki Quartet:
Hada Hada

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Thunderous and intense free improvisation from Natsuki Tamurao's Quartet with Satoko Fujii playing sythesizer. 2003 release, first time in stock at Squidco.

Dixon Orchestra, Bill: 17 Musicians In Search of a Sound: Darfur
Dixon Orchestra, Bill:
17 Musicians In Search of a Sound: Darfur

(Aum Fidelity -- USA )


Price: $14.95    




Out of Stock

Legendary trumpeter, composer and educator Bill Dixon in a 17 piece orchestra playing original compositions live at the 12th Vision Festival in New York City.

Drake, Hamid / Sylvain Kassap: Heads Or Tails [2 CDs]
Drake, Hamid / Sylvain Kassap:
Heads Or Tails [2 CDs]

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $23.95    




Out of Stock

A masterful fountain of melodic ideas, intriguing rhythms, and exceptional technical skill from the duo of Hamid Drake on drums and frame drum, and Sylvain Kassap on clarinets and chalumeau, recording live at the France Musique at Studio Theatre dÕAlfortville and in the studio.

Judson Trio (Joelle Leandre / Mat Maneri / Gerald Cleaver): An Air of Unreality [VINYL]
Judson Trio (Joelle Leandre / Mat Maneri / Gerald Cleaver):
An Air of Unreality [VINYL]

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $19.95    




Out of Stock

A live performance at Judson Church in Manhattan as part of the 20th Vision Festival from the NY/France free improvising trio of Joelle Leandre on double bass, Mat Maneri on viola, and Gerald Cleaver on drums and percussion, two tracks of steadily building, incredibly compatible dialog.

Trouble Kaze (Fujii / Agnel / Tamura / Pruvost / Lasserre / Orins): June
Trouble Kaze (Fujii / Agnel / Tamura / Pruvost / Lasserre / Orins):
June

(Helix Circum-Disc -- France )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Drummer Peter Orins expands the Kaze quartet of trumpeters Natsuki Tamura and Christian Pruvost and pianist Satoko Fujii, with a second drummmer--Didier Lasserre--and a second pianist--Sophie Agnel--for a live recording of a 5-part suite of magnificently epic collective improv.

Fujii, Satoko : Invisible Hand [2 CDs]
Fujii, Satoko :
Invisible Hand [2 CDs]

(Cortez Sound -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

After bringing her band Kaze to the Cortez club in Mito, Japan, the owner asked pianist Satoko Fujii back to perform a solo show, captured here across two CDs showing her extensive technical skills and passionate approach to playing, in a mix of new work and new takes on previously recorded compositions.

Fujii, Satoko Orchestra Tokyo + KAZE: Peace (Tribute To Kelly Churko)
Fujii, Satoko Orchestra Tokyo + KAZE:
Peace (Tribute To Kelly Churko)

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Pianist Satoko Fujii's Orchestra Tokyo + the band Kaze, bringing guests trumpeter Cristian Pruvost and drummer Peter Orins alongside trumpeter Natsuki Tamura into a spectacular big band of great power but also subtle meditation, in four works that include a tribute to the late guitarist and Fujii collaborator Kelly Churko.

Fujii, Satoko: Indication
Fujii, Satoko:
Indication

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

Pianist Satoko Fujii in eight solo compositions and a traditional Japanese folk song, recorded in New York City, 1996 and remastered in 2004.

Koh / Fujii / Reichman: Yamabuki
Koh / Fujii / Reichman:
Yamabuki

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

The trio of Japanese art-folk singer Koh Yamabuki with pianist Satoko Fujii and accordionist Ted Recihment in emotional, inventive and delicately beautiful music.

Ochs, Larry / Sax and Drumming Core: Wild Red Yellow
Ochs, Larry / Sax and Drumming Core:
Wild Red Yellow

(RogueArt -- France )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

Rova leader Larry Ochs takes his Sax and Drumming Core to the next level with this charged album of mind-bending free improvisation with an hallucinatory edge, joined by Libra artists Satoko Fujii on piano & synth and Natsuki Tamura on trumpet, with Scott Amendola on drums, William Winant and Matthias Bossi on a wild set of percussive instruments.

Fujii, Satoko Quartet (w/ Natsuki Tamura / Keisuke Ohta / Takashi Itani): Live at Jazz Room Cortez
Fujii, Satoko Quartet (w/ Natsuki Tamura / Keisuke Ohta / Takashi Itani):
Live at Jazz Room Cortez

(Cortez Sound -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

Presenting a different line-up from the 2001 debut of Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii's Quartet, remaining is trumpeter Natsuka Tamura, with Keisuke Ohta on violin and Takashi Itani on drums, performing evolving and rich collective improvisation with a strange edge, captured live at the Jazz Room Cortez in Mito, Japan in 2016 for two extended and bewitching sets.

Fujii, Satoko / Natsuki Tamura: Kisaragi
Fujii, Satoko / Natsuki Tamura:
Kisaragi

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

On their 5th album together, pianist Satoko Fujii and trumpeter Natsuki Tamura push the limits on approach and technique with their instruments, creating otherworldly and captivating improvisations, both players deciding against using "normal instrumental sounds", instead using preparations and textural approaches to create truly unique music.

Gato Libre (Fujii / Tamura / Kaneko): Neko
Gato Libre (Fujii / Tamura / Kaneko):
Neko

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Trumpeter Natsuki Tamura's Gato Libre in its 5th album brings a beautiful light-through-the-leaves melodic melancholy to their unhurried pace, now the trio of Tamura, Satoko Fujii on accordion, and Yasuko Kaneko on trombone, as the cats on the cover stop to find allure in the late day while bringing profound and introspective music to our ears.

Fujii, Satoko Orchestra New York: Fukushima
Fujii, Satoko Orchestra New York:
Fukushima

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Diverse aspects of the 2011 disaster at the Japanese Fukushima nuclear power plant brought on by a tsunami orchestrated in sound by composer/pianist Satoko Fujii and rendered in remarkable ways from some of New York finest improvisers, including Tony Malaby, Ellery Eskelin, Oscar Noriega, Herb Roberts, Joe Fiedler, Stomu Takeishi, Nels Cline, &c &c.

Kaze (Fujii / Tamura / Pruvost / Orins): Atody Man
Kaze (Fujii / Tamura / Pruvost / Orins):
Atody Man

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

The fifth album from the French and Japanese quartet Kaze, initiated by drummer Pter Orins, with two trumpeters--Christian Pruvost and Natsuki Tamura--and pianist Satoko Fujii, all using extended and unusual techniques as they perform innovative compositions from Fujii, Orins, and Tamura with a balance of serious and playful approaches; brilliant.

Fujii, Satoko: Ninety-Nine Years
Fujii, Satoko:
Ninety-Nine Years

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Composer-pianist Satoko Fujii's new Orchestra Berlin, a ten-piece ensemble, presents a powerful work written specifically for this group in thought-provoking compositions of and uninhibited energy, with performers including saxophonists Gebhard Ullmann, Paulina Owczarek & Matthias Schubert, trombonist Matthias Muller, bassist Jan Roder, and drummers Peter Orins and Michael Griener.

Kira Kira (Tamura / Spence / Fujii / Takemura): Bright Force
Kira Kira (Tamura / Spence / Fujii / Takemura):
Bright Force

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Since 2007 Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii and Australian keyboardist Alister Spence have collaborated on performance and recording in several configurations, including work with Tony Buck, Raymond McDonald, Jim O'Rourke, &c.; this energetic and otherworldly quartet session with trumpeter Natsuki Tamura and drummer Ittetsu Takemura was recored live Knuttel House, in Tokyo, 2017.

This Is It! (Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura / Takashi Itani): 1538
This Is It! (Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura / Takashi Itani):
1538

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Part of pianist Satoko Fujii's "Kanreki" (60th Birthday) tour and monthly album release, the "This Is It!" Trio with trumpeter Natsuki Tamura and drummer/percussionist Takashi Itani is heard at Koendori Classics, in Tokyo, Japan, in January 2018, for an incredible album of Fujii's compositions that include quirky asides in coherent and effusive playing.

Fujii / Fonda / Mimmo: Triad
Fujii / Fonda / Mimmo:
Triad

(Long Song Records -- Italy )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

An album recorded on the 59th birthday of pianist-composer Satoko Fujii, the second recorded with bassist Joe Fonda on the Long Song imprint, this time in a trio with soprano saxophonist Gianni Mimmo, the focus of the album the 42 minute monumental improvisation "Birthday Girl", a sophisticated and engaging dialog of lyrical playing and great beauty.

Mahobin (Fujii / Anker / Tamura / Mori): Live at Big Apple in Kobe
Mahobin (Fujii / Anker / Tamura / Mori):
Live at Big Apple in Kobe

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Continuing the celebration of pianist Satoko Fujii's 60th birtday by releasing one CD each month, this quartet brings an excellent set of electroacoustic improvisation to the collection in a quartet with trumpeter Natsuki Tamura, New York saxophonist Lotte Anker, and New York electronic artist and former DNA drummer Ikue Mori, performing live at Tokyo's Big Apple in 2018.

Fujii, Satoko / Joe Fonda: Mizu
Fujii, Satoko / Joe Fonda:
Mizu

(Long Song Records -- Italy )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

With commanding instrumental skills and a growing history of collaboration, bassist Joe Fonda and pianist Satoko Fujii are heard again in two live concerts as part of their 2017 European tour, two duos from Belgium and one in Germany, the CD taking its title from the Japanese word for "water" as the two converse in powerfully emotional and technically breathtaking ways.

Spence, Alister / Satoko Fujii: Intelsat
Spence, Alister / Satoko Fujii:
Intelsat

(Alister Spence Music -- Australia )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

Continuing her monthly releases for her 60th birthday, Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii meets Australian keyboard and electronic artist Alister Spence for their second meeting, touring Japan and recording this spellbinding album merging bells, gongs, electronics, and acoustic piano, inside and out, in a passionate album that balances melodicism and sound.

Amu (Fujii / Tamura / Itani / Wildenhahn): Weave [CD & DVD]
Amu (Fujii / Tamura / Itani / Wildenhahn):
Weave [CD & DVD]

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $22.95    




In Stock

Mizuki Wildenhahn adds an unusual percussive instrument through dance to the multi-arts Amu quartet of Wildenhahn, trumpeter Natsuki Tamura, pianist Satoko Fujii, and percussionist Takashi Itani, heard on the CD and seen on the DVD of this 2-disc set of their unorthodox and absorbing live performance at Kanagawa Prefectural Lake Sagami-ko Exchange Center in 2018.

Fujii, Satoko : Diary 2005-2015 [Scorebook]
Fujii, Satoko :
Diary 2005-2015 [Scorebook]

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $39.95    




In Stock

A book of scores to accompany the double CD of 56 Satoko Fujii compostions titled "Diary 2005-2015", performed by respected classical pianist and educator Yuko Yamaoka, released as part of Satoko Fujii's ambitious 60th birthday monthly album set.

Fujii, Satoko Orchestra Tokyo: Kikoeru, Tribute to Masaya Kimura
Fujii, Satoko Orchestra Tokyo:
Kikoeru, Tribute to Masaya Kimura

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

Completing a year of monthly albums for pianist Satoko Fujii's "kanreki", or 60th birthday, is this impressive and cathartic album written for Fujii's Orchestra Tokyo as a tribute to late tenor saxophonist and 10 year orchestra member Masaya Kimura, with four compositions from Fujii and two from trumpeter Natsuki Tamura, in an album of both profound testimonly and celebratory release.

Spence, Alister / Satoko Fujii Orchestra Kobe: Imagine Meeting You Here
Spence, Alister / Satoko Fujii Orchestra Kobe:
Imagine Meeting You Here

(Alister Spence Music -- Australia )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

Australian composer Alister Spence wrote this in five parts composed for an improvising orchestra, which was first premiered in 2016 by Satoko Fujii's orchestras in Kobe, Nagoya and Tokyo, and the Glasgow Improvisers Orchestra; this recordings in 2017 at Big Apple Jazz Club in Kobe revisits the work with Fujii's Orchestra Kobe, conducted by the composer.

Fujii, Satoko ma-do: Heat Wave
Fujii, Satoko ma-do:
Heat Wave

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Satako Fujii's 2008 release introducing her then new ma-do quartet of Satoko Fujii on piano, Natsuki Tamura on trumpet, Akira Horikoshi on drums, and late bassist Norikatsu Koreyasu, the band name signifying "window" and "the silence between notes", in an album of superb, lively, eclectic and absolutely exciting improvisation from 9 original Fujii compositions.

Fujii, Satoko: Stone
Fujii, Satoko:
Stone

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

A stunning solo album working inside and outside of the piano and coaxing electronic response from the strings from pianist Satoko Fujii, caputered at Samurai Hotel in NY in September of 2018, and in the studio in Brooklyn three months later, during her prolific 60th "kanreki" birthday year, here in 15 dynamic and far-ranging improvisations revealing her depth and creative powers.

Fujii, Satoko / Joe Fonda: Four
Fujii, Satoko / Joe Fonda:
Four

(Long Song Records -- Italy )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

Their aptly titled "Fourth" album since they first performed together in 2015, Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii and NY bassist and flutist Joe Fonda have toured and developed an intuitive, almost telepathic, relationship--naturally melodic, intelligent yet emotional-- heard here in two concerts in Japan, with trumpeter Natsuki Tamura joining as a guest on two pieces.

Toh-Kichi (Satoko Fujii / Tatsuya Yoshida): Baikamo
Toh-Kichi (Satoko Fujii / Tatsuya Yoshida):
Baikamo

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

The duo of Japanese improvisers, pianist Satoko Fujii and drummer Tatsuya Yoshida, continue their collaborations which includes many albums with the Satoko Fujii Quartet, their duo "Erans" record on Tzadik, and the original "Toh-Kichi" album on Victo, here in a new studio album of intricate, energetic and ebullient improvised dialogs, named for the aquatic flower "Baikamo".

Fujii, Satoko / Orchestra New York: Entity
Fujii, Satoko / Orchestra New York:
Entity

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Satoko Fujii leads her 13-piece big band through 5 thrilling and insightful compositions with a who's-who of NY improvisation: Nels Cline (guitar), Ches Smith (drums), Joe Fiedler & Curt Hasselbring (drums), Oscar Noriega, Ellery Eskelin, Briggan Krauss, Andy Laster & Tony Malaby (sax), Herb Robertson, Natsuki Tamura & Dave Ballou (trumpet) & bassist Stomu Takeishi; wow!

Fujii, Satoko / Natsuki Tamura: Pentas: Tribute to Eric and Chris Stern
Fujii, Satoko / Natsuki Tamura:
Pentas: Tribute to Eric and Chris Stern

(Not Two -- Poland )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii and trumpeter Natsuki Tamura (The NatSat Duo) launch their project Pentas with this album, their 7th as a duo, with compositions from each musician and dedicated as a tribute to Eric and Chris Stern, elder inspirational fans who spoke with the duo after the NY premiere of this music, upon learning that Eric passed away that very night.

Kaze (Fujii / Tamura / Pruvost / Orins) w/ Ikue Mori: Sand Storm
Kaze (Fujii / Tamura / Pruvost / Orins) w/ Ikue Mori:
Sand Storm

(Libra/ Circum-Disc -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

The cooperative quartet Kaze of Satoko Fujii on piano, Peter Orins on drums, Christian Pruvost on trumpet, Natsuki Tamura on trumpet, joins with elextroacoustic improviser Ikue Mori for seven exploratory pieces recorded in the studio after a one-week tour in Austria, France, and Russia, their enthusiasm for their extraordinarily unique group sound clearly evident.

Mazur, Rafal (feat. Satoko Fujii / Guilleromo Gregorio / Ramon Lopez / Natsuki Tamura / Artur Majews
Mazur, Rafal (feat. Satoko Fujii / Guilleromo Gregorio / Ramon Lopez / Natsuki Tamura / Artur Majewski):
The Great Tone Has No Sound [4 CDs]

(Listen! Foundation (Fundacja Sluchaj!) -- Poland )


Price: $49.95    




In Stock

Four settings with improvising bass guitarist Rafal Mazur, 4 CDs, the first a solo studio recording of two extended improvisations; the 2nd a duo with clarinetist Guillermo Gregorio; the 3rd a live concert at Baza Club in Krakow with trumpeter Artur Majewski; the 4th a quintet session with Gregorio, Satoko Fujii (piano), Natsuki Tamura (trumpet), Ramon Lopez (drums).

Mori, Ikue / Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura: Prickly Pear Cactus
Mori, Ikue / Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura:
Prickly Pear Cactus

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Extending their previous collaborations during the time of pandemic, NY electronic improviser Ikue Mori and Japanese improvisers Natsuki Tamura on trumpet and Satoko Fujii on piano developed this extraordinary ea-improv album via file exchange, starting with Fujii's piano improvisations to which Mori & Tamura added their layers, with Mori mixing the final, startling results.

Wandering The Sound Quintet (Satoko Fujii / Guillermo Gregorio / Natsuki Tamuyra / Rafat Mazur / Ram
Wandering The Sound Quintet (Satoko Fujii / Guillermo Gregorio / Natsuki Tamuyra / Rafat Mazur / Ramon Lopez):
What Is...?

(Not Two -- Poland )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

The first Wandering The Sound album in 2018 was the trio of Argentinian reedist Guillermo Gregorio, Spanish drummer Ramón López and Polish bassist Rafał Mazur, here extended to a quintet with pianist Satoko Fujii and trumpeter Natsuki Tamura for a 2019 concert at Alchemia in Poland, a masterful example of free improv based on a poem by Ikkyu Sojun, a Zen master from the 15th century.

 
Fujii, Satoko ma-do:
Heat Wave

(Not Two -- Poland )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Satako Fujii's 2008 release introducing her then new ma-do quartet of Satoko Fujii on piano, Natsuki Tamura on trumpet, Akira Horikoshi on drums, and late bassist Norikatsu Koreyasu, the band name signifying "window" and "the silence between notes", in an album of superb, lively, eclectic and absolutely exciting improvisation from 9 original Fujii compositions.

Fujii, Satoko: Piano Music
Fujii, Satoko:
Piano Music

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

A stunning sound collage made from recorded fragments of Fujii's studio piano, captured inside and out using traditional piano sonorities and preparations that often microscopically detail the instrument, then edited into two electroacoustic compositions of startling and unexpected expansiveness and wonder; a unique and fascinating release in Fujii's large oeuvre.

Futari (Satoko Fujii / Taiko Saito): Underground
Futari (Satoko Fujii / Taiko Saito):
Underground

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

Pandemic restrictions having cancelled their European tour, the Futari duo of pianist Satoko Fujii and vibraphonist Taiko Saito chose instead to develop a new collaborative album of improvisations exchanged by sound file, each intently listening to the other's recordings, their care and pensive responses creating an astounding and sublime album of stunningly beautiful music.

This Is It! (Fujii / Itani / Tamura): Mosaic
This Is It! (Fujii / Itani / Tamura):
Mosaic

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Circumventing pandemic lockdowns, the trio of husband & wife, pianist Satoko Fujii and trumpeter Natsuki Tamura, recorded this album at their home in Kobe, Japan using an internet connection to perform in real time with drummer/percussionist Takashi Itani in Tokyo, their joyful and sophisticated improvisation a testament to close listening and magnificent communication.

Fujii, Satoko / Joe Fonda: Thread Of Light
Fujii, Satoko / Joe Fonda:
Thread Of Light

(Listen! Foundation (Fundacja Sluchaj!) -- Poland )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

The enduring and innately lyrical collaboration of Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii and NY bassist Joe Fonda, first heard in 2016 with Duet, through 2019's Four with trumpeter Natsuki Tamura, continues despite the constraints of a pandemic in these 10 improvisations recorded separately in Kobe and at Fonda's home, with Fonda also performing on cello & flute.

Tamura, Natsuki: Summer Tree
Tamura, Natsuki:
Summer Tree

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

A stunning album of solo trumpet performance from Natsuki Tamura, who's name in Japanese translates as 'Natsu' meaning 'summer' and 'Ki' means 'tree', performed as layers of remarkable technique led by clarion playing over trumpet drones, sonic turbulence and percussive interaction on a wok, each layer using his extended vocabulary without studio manipulation.

Mori, Ikue: Tracing The Magic
Mori, Ikue:
Tracing The Magic

(Tzadik -- USA )


Price: $15.95    




Out of Stock

A large work from Downtown New York improviser and innovator Ikue Mori, seven piece dedicated to women artists whose vision found them creating into their 80's & 90s, performed in an ensemble with Sylvie Courvoisier, Ned Rothenberg, Zeena Parkins, Satoko Fujii, Natsuki Tamura, Erik Friedlander, David Watson, Makigami Koichi, Charmaine Lee & Sae Hashimoto.

First Meeting (Tamura / Fujii / Churko / Yamamoto): Cut The Rope
First Meeting (Tamura / Fujii / Churko / Yamamoto):
Cut The Rope

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $14.95    




In Stock

Trumpeter Tamura in an album of improvisational fragmentation, textural and timbral explorations, and rapid-fire juxtapositions that create kaleidoscopic sound collages.

Fujii, Satoko: Hazuki
Fujii, Satoko:
Hazuki

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

With the sudden cessation of touring due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Satoko Fujii turned to composing and recording herself in a home studio that she developed with the help of sound engineer Mike Marciano, freeing herself to explore new compositional methods and approaches to theory, this superb solo album the results of seven months of sublime self-expression.

Fujii, Satoko / Yuko Yamaoka: Diary 2005-2015: Tuko Yamaoka plays the music of Satoko Fujii [2 CDs]
Fujii, Satoko / Yuko Yamaoka:
Diary 2005-2015: Tuko Yamaoka plays the music of Satoko Fujii [2 CDs]

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

A double CD of Satoko Fujii compositions, 56 short compositions from a series she started around 2005 to expand her skills as a composer, many of which fueled her many band's repertoires; in 2018 she asked respected classical pianist and educator Yuko Yamaoka to record this set of compositions as part of her 60th birthday monthly album set.

Fujii, Satoko Tokyo Trio: Moon on the Lake
Fujii, Satoko Tokyo Trio:
Moon on the Lake

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Pianist Satoko Fujii introduces a new trio with two younger and very active musicians on the Japanese jazz scene--bassist Takashi Sugawa and drummer Ittetsu Takemura--recording in 2020 at Pit Inn in Tokyo for their 3rd live date together, performing five lyrical Fujii original compositions, including "Aspirations" from her album with Leo Smith & Ikue Mori.

Gato Libre (Tamura / Fjuii / Kaneko): Koneko
Gato Libre (Tamura / Fjuii / Kaneko):
Koneko

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

The 8th album from Gato Libre with compositions from trumpeter Natsuki Tamura in a trio with Yasuko Kaneko on trombone and pianist Satoko Fujii here on accordion, Koneko translating to "Kitten", as Tamura explores 8 new cats from strays to shop cats through deceptively simple pieces of melodic appeal of warm color, tone & texture; absolutely charming.

Tamura, Natsuki: Dragon Nat
Tamura, Natsuki:
Dragon Nat

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

Using Gato Libre's music as the direction for his first solo album since 2004, trumpeter Natsuki Tamura releases an album of powerful and personal playing with a surreal flow of ideas, impish humor, and restrained joy.

Tamura, Natsuki : Koki Solo
Tamura, Natsuki :
Koki Solo

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

"Koki" translates to "rare in ancient times," referring to ones 70th birthday, a milestone that trumpeter Natsuki Tamura achieves this year, providing proof that such an age is no longer rare, nor that it has affected the tremendous creative and physical powers that Tamura applies to his playing, as heard in this inventive solo album on trumpet, piano, voice and even pots & pans!

Tamura, Natsuki / Satoko Fujii : How Many?
Tamura, Natsuki / Satoko Fujii :
How Many?

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock
Tamura, Natsuki / Satoko Fujii / Ramon Lopez: Mantle
Tamura, Natsuki / Satoko Fujii / Ramon Lopez:
Mantle

(Not Two -- Poland )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

While on a tour of Japan in 2019, Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii and Spanish drummer Ramon Lopez asked trumpeter Natsuki Tamura to join them, and to join in a challenge to write a new piece of music for the trio each day while on tour; this studio album selects the finest of those compositions, performed with nearly telepathic control in a mix of fire and lyrical beauty.

Kaze: Rafale
Kaze:
Rafale

(Circum-Libra -- Japan/France )


Price: $16.95    




Out of Stock

Kaze brings together Japan's incredible improviser-composers, trumpeter Natsuki Tamura and pianist Satoko Fujii, with trumpeter Christian Pruvost and drummer Peter Orins from the French improvisers collective Muzzix.

Fujii, Satoko / Otomo Yoshihide: Perpetual Motion
Fujii, Satoko / Otomo Yoshihide:
Perpetual Motion

(Ayler Records -- France )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Expanding their instruments into sonic sculpture, this first meeting between acclaimed Japanese improvisers Satoko Fujii, performing inside and out of the piano, and electric guitarist Otomo Yoshihide, demonstrates their incredible compatibly as heard in these live recordings at Tokyo's Pit Inn, part of an annual festival organized by Fujii & trumpeter Natsuki Tamura.

Kaze with Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura / Christian Pruvost / Peter Orins & Ikue Mori: Crustal Movem
Kaze with Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura / Christian Pruvost / Peter Orins & Ikue Mori:
Crustal Movement

(Circum-Libra -- Japan/France )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

The cooperative Japanese/French quartet Kaze of pianist Satoko Fujii, trumpeter Natsuki Tamura, trumpeter Christian Pruvost and drummer Peter Orins are expanded for a second time with New York electronic artist Ikue Mori, embracing pandemic restrictions by creating this album through file exchange, adding complex layers of profound interaction to the virtual improvisations.

Fujii, Satoko: Torrent (Piano Solo)
Fujii, Satoko:
Torrent (Piano Solo)

(Libra -- Japan )


Price: $16.95    




In Stock

The ninth solo album from pianist Satoko Fujii, the most recent in a "torrent" of solo releases over the last six years, this album a remarkable display of force and beauty in improvised playing on the keyboard and inside the piano, captured live at IYO Yume Mari Kan Bunka Hall in six improvisations of cascading notes and introspective passages; spectacular!

Dorr, Welf Unit: Blood
Dorr, Welf Unit:
Blood

(Creative Sources -- Portugal )


Price: $15.95    




In Stock

Combining free jazz spontaneity with the urgency of funk and rock, NY-based German saxophonist and bass clarinetist Welf Dorr (Funk Monk) presents his Unit with drummer Joe Hertenstein, bassist Dmitry Ishenko and guitarist Dave Ross, in an energetic album of tunes that combine determination and passion with upbeat grooves balanced by beautiful ballad work.

 

See More Items:


Best Sellers in This Category:

Fujii, Satoko: Ninety-Nine Years

Fujii, Satoko / Orchestra New York: Entity

Fujii, Satoko Orchestra New York: Fukushima

Fujii, Satoko Orchestra Tokyo + KAZE: Peace (Tribute To Kelly Churko)

Mahobin (Fujii / Anker / Tamura / Mori): Live at Big Apple in Kobe

This Is It! (Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura / Takashi Itani): 1538

Fujii, Satoko / Otomo Yoshihide: Perpetual Motion

This Is It! (Fujii / Itani / Tamura): Mosaic

Toh-Kichi (Satoko Fujii / Tatsuya Yoshida): Baikamo

Wandering The Sound Quintet (Satoko Fujii / Guillermo Gregorio / Natsuki Tamuyra / Rafat Mazur / Ram

Kira Kira (Tamura / Spence / Fujii / Takemura): Bright Force

Fujii Orchestra, Satoko: South Wind

Fujii, Satoko: Piano Music

Mori, Ikue / Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura: Prickly Pear Cactus

Kaze (Fujii / Tamura / Pruvost / Orins) w/ Ikue Mori: Sand Storm

Fujii, Satoko New Trio: Spring Storm

Fujii, Satoko: Stone

Fujii, Satoko New York Orchestra: Shiki

Kaze with Satoko Fujii / Natsuki Tamura / Christian Pruvost / Peter Orins & Ikue Mori: Crustal Movem

Kaze (Fujii / Tamura / Pruvost / Orins): Atody Man

The Squid's Ear Magazine

The Squid's Ear Magazine

© 2002-, Squidco LLC