AMN Reviews: Satoko Fujii – Torrent (Libra)

Satoko Fujii is widely celebrated as one of the most cerebral and talented improvisers Japan has ever produced. Aside from working in a multitude of group constellations, the solo piano CD Torrent is something like the one hundred and third release under her own name. Throughout, Fujii, both introspective poet and spellbinding storyteller, juxtaposes explosive passion with tempered, imaginative restraint.

The opening title track fairly erupts, and yet the delicacy with which her fingers pick each note is astonishing. As she proceeds, the intense volcano gives way to a rolling lawn tended in the English style, with flower petals dropping onto a tranquil pond. She and her instrument seem to have an organic relationship, both inside and out, as she reaches inside to bow and tickle the strings. The oceanic theme – “Voyage,” “Light on the Sea Surface,” “Wave Crest” – continues as unpredictable and fascinating as the sea. The music teases and pokes, remonstrates then flashes a smile, and lifts up melody until it almost leaves you breathless.

Stephen Fruitman