Scenery vinyl

Scenery by Ryo Fukui stands as a testament to the unyielding beauty and underappreciated genius of jazz beyond the Western sphere. In this modal masterpiece, Fukui breathes new life into jazz classics while also delivering original compositions that echo the brilliance of icons like Bill Evans and the John Coltrane Quartet. His rendition of standards like 'Autumn Leaves' showcases his unique interpretation, infusing each note with soulful vigor and inventive flair. Fukui's virtuosity on the keys is evident throughout the album, with thunderous yet restrained drumming and a keyboard style that effortlessly blends swing with finesse. Tracks like 'Early Summer' exemplify his ability to seamlessly transition between chill melodies and frenetic improvisation, capturing the essence of jazz's liberating spirit. While jazz faced an identity crisis in America, Fukui's adherence to the genre's purity produced some of its finest yet unnoticed works of art in Japan. Scenery serves as both homage to jazz's luminaries and a lament for the lack of global recognition for Fukui's talent. With elements of modal, bop, and cool jazz, Scenery exudes majesty and excitement, inviting listeners to rediscover its mastery and appreciate Fukui's contribution to the jazz canon.