PAPATAMUS REDUX

LIBRA 102-75  (RECORDED DECEMBER 2023)

According to Chinese philosophy, the concept of yin and yang is that all things exist as inseparable and contradictory opposites. The familiar black and white symbol of yin and yang illustrates that principle with each side of the relationship being unique, yet complimentary. If you want to hear what yin and yang sounds like, listen to the newest recording from the duo of trumpeter Natsuki Tamura and pianist Satoko Fujii. After nearly 30 years of working together, this husband/wife duo balance structure and freedom throughout the six freely improvised conversations of Aloft. On “Migration,” the conversation is civil as Tamura explores the sonic possibilities presented by Fujii’s somber and sparse foundation.  The conversation becomes chatty on “Traveling Bird” as Tamura and Fujii exchange short blasts and splashes for a lively musical discussion. On “Wintering,” the conversation is a bit more contentious with Tamura’s wind like trumpet effects attacking Fujii’s cascading runs. The recording resolves with the more conciliatory conversation of “Waiting for Dawn” with its closing resolution from Fujii punctuated by a final plea from Tamura. A variety of small percussion instruments are tastefully added to accent each conversation. Eavesdrop on these conversations of Tamura and Fujii which are rich in the musical yin and yang of structure and freedom, calm and turbulence, and surprise and composure.  

BOTTOM LINE:  Pianist Satoko Fujii named the pieces on this recording after finding some inspiration in the freedom of birds. Aloft is your opportunity to hear the husband/wife duo of Fujii and trumpeter Natsuki Tamura soar, swoop, nest and fly on their ninth recording as a duo.