Kiyoshi Yamaya, Toshiko Yonekawa, Kifu Mitsuhashi - Wamono Groove: Jazz Funk ’76 (2022)

Get ready to groove to the hypnotic rhythms of “Wamono Groove: Shakuhachi & Koto Jazz Funk ’76“ by the dynamic trio of Kiyoshi Yamaya, Toshiko Yonekawa, and Kifu Mitsuhashi. This album is a vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and traditional Japanese music, transporting you to the bustling streets of 1970s Tokyo with its infectious energy. Led by the legendary Kiyoshi Yamaya, a trailblazer of Japanese jazz, this ensemble brings together a diverse array of talents to create a truly immersive listening experience. Toshiko Yonekawa’s masterful koto performances add a layer of elegance and depth to the compositions, while Kifu Mitsuhashi’s shakuhachi virtuosity infuses each track with soulful melodies and haunting atmospheres. From the pulsating rhythms of “Hohai-Bushi“ to the serene beauty of “Isohama Bon-Uta,“ every track on this album is a testament to the musicianship and creativity of its performers. The arrangements, expertly crafted by Nicolas Kerembell