the Satoko Fujii Orchestra “Maru” [Bakamo Records]

cujo   2/27/2007   CD, Jazz

They’re good, really good! I get the impression all members are superlative instrumentalists possessing perfect control of fatness and squeal. What makes this stand out from recent big band additions? An undercurrent of funk, and a reliance on rhythms. Some standouts:

Track 1, Slip-on: It’s funky!

Track 3, Maru: A jangly electric guitar slashes its way through very martial rhythms & riffs.

Track 5, Bennie’s waltz: Japan-Sicily foreign exchange program!

Track 6, Sakuradori sen: totally tubalar intro (somebody light the Richoux-symbol!), a nearly epic trumpet/tenor duet, a drum solo fit for Max Level, and a collapsing wrap-up.

Booyakasha Maru!

-Cujo, KFJC, January 2007

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sailordave posted this review on 03/09/07:

This is an upbeat hip fun to play fun to listen 6 song CD that I suggest everyone take a listen to. Track 3- MARU is catchy and has an awesome quick beat and tempo. SLIP ON is perhaps my favorite. All are worthy as I see all 6 tunes have been played on various shows. Some thing here for all to enjoy