PRE-ORDER
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DESCRIPTION
Originally released in 1981, Watarase captures legendary jazz drummer Takeo Moriyama at the height of his powers, leading a virtuosic quartet in a breathtaking exploration of rhythm, space, and melodic improvisation. Known for his pioneering work with the Yosuke Yamashita Trio and ongoing collaborations with KYOTO JAZZ SEXTET, Moriyama bridges avant-garde and lyrical jazz with profound emotional depth.
Recorded in 1980, this session features pianist Fumio Itabashi and saxophonists Yoshio Kuniyasu and Koichi Matsukaze, along with bassist Hideaki Mochizuki. Together they create an atmosphere where freedom and form dance seamlessly. The album is best known for the moving Japanese jazz classic “Watarase,” while tracks like “Exchange” and “Good Bye” showcase the group’s dynamic energy and elegant restraint.
This definitive reissue is pressed on clear blue vinyl and includes new liner notes by Universounds' Yusuke Ogawa, shedding light on the album's enduring place in Japanese jazz history.
Reissue Features:
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Pressed on clear blue vinyl
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Gatefold jacket
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Obi strip included
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Extensive liner notes by Yusuke Ogawa (Japanese & English)
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Remastered from the original recordings
TRACKLIST
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Exchange
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Watarase
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Step
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Smile
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Good Bye