Neon
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The rising pianist, composer and arrangers Arina Fujiwara brings along Jaycee Cardoso, Sammy Andonian, Jeremy Klein, Clara Cho, Vid Jamnik, Brad King, Dan Finn and Mikkel Blaesild Vuust for this 6 song debut.
“Yuki Ga Furu” opens the listen with Fujiwara’s elegant piano alongside the quivering strings from Cardoso, Andonian and Klein, as a stirring orchestral presence unfolds, and “Hotaru Koi” follows with Cho’s lively cello amid the mature keys and light drums from Vuust.
In the middle, the dreamy atmosphere of “Neon” illustrates Fujiwara’s intimate appeal that benefits from Jamnik’s playful vibes, while “Komorebi” carries an almost lullaby feel that’s full of melody thanks to warm vibes and Finn’s soft bass.
The final track, Scott Joplin’s “Maple Leaf Rag”, is a quick EP highlight that’s solo piano and unfolds with frisky and meticulous progressions that are a lot of fun.
An excellent first outing, Fujiwara might be a youngster, but she holds her own like a seasoned vet.
Travels well with: Colette Michaan- Earth Rebirth; Dimitri Landrain Trio- Astor’s Place