Tsuyoshi Yamamoto Trio - Speed Ball Blues (Music Video)

The Yamamoto-composed “Speed Ball Blues” is a lively and delectably enticing track, by the legendary Tsuyoshi Yamamoto. It dazzles with personality, as the listener is quickly absorbed into a charming conversation between piano, bass and drums. Offering just the right mix between serene and spell-binding - it is the perfect insight into the album it comes from, “A Shade Of Blue”.

*“A Shade Of Blue” digital album will be available from the 8th December 2023.

Also available in 2024 on MQA-CD + Blu-ray (Dolby Atmos + Stereo) and on an impeccably shot 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray (Dolby Atmos / Auro /Stereo).

About “A Shade Of Blue”:

The eagerly awaited follow-up to his acclaimed 2021 album, Blues For K, A Shade Of Blue captures Tsuyoshi Yamamoto leading a trio featuring bassist Hiroshi Kagawa and drummer Toshio Osumi, recorded playing live at Tokyo’s Gotanda Cultural Center Music Hall. A well-balanced blend of timeless jazz standards (“Misty”), memorable pop tunes (“The Way We Were”) and striking original material (“Speed Ball Blues”), A Shade Of Blue is a stunning showcase for the pianistic brilliance of 76-year-old Yamamoto, who sparkles on up-tempo swingers and achieves a deeply glowing luminosity on his incredible renditions of slow ballads.

#ashadeofblue #tsuyoshiyamamoto #jazz

[kinasc]

Absolutely love this, wonderful trio!!!

[giovbattistaangelini]

I listened Yamamoto-san in a live performance in Tokio middle of '80s, I'm following his music since then. A Shade of Blue is the last amazing performance of this wonderful trio.

[giuseppecandiano]

Tsuyoshi Yamamoto, a name synonymous with elegance, precision, and emotional depth in the realm of jazz piano, has captivated audiences worldwide with his artistry. Whether performing solo or leading his trio, Yamamoto's music exudes a unique blend of technical brilliance and soulful expression that sets him apart as one of the finest pianists of his generation.

Solo Performances:

As a solo artist, Tsuyoshi Yamamoto demonstrates an extraordinary command of the piano, weaving intricate melodies with a touch of grace and sensitivity that is truly remarkable. His solo recordings, such as those found on "Autumn in Seattle, " highlight his ability to convey deep emotion through his playing. The album is a masterful collection of standards and original compositions, each piece rendered with a touch that is both delicate and powerful. Tracks like "Misty" and "The Way We Were" showcase his nuanced approach to phrasing, dynamics, and harmonic exploration, revealing a profound understanding of the piano's expressive capabilities.

Yamamoto's solo performances are characterized by a clarity and precision that allows each note to resonate with purpose. His technical proficiency is evident in his fluid runs and intricate voicings, but it is his ability to convey emotion that truly sets him apart. Whether interpreting a ballad or an up-tempo number, Yamamoto's playing is imbued with a sense of storytelling, drawing listeners into the narrative of the music.

The Tsuyoshi Yamamoto Trio:

While Yamamoto's solo work is impressive, it is within the trio format that his genius truly shines. The Tsuyoshi Yamamoto Trio, often featuring bassist Isoo Fukui and drummer Tetsujiro Obara, has produced some of the most compelling jazz recordings of the past few decades. The synergy between the trio members is palpable, creating a musical dialogue that is both intricate and intuitive.

One of the trio's most celebrated albums is "Midnight Sugar, " a recording that has become a benchmark for audiophiles and jazz enthusiasts alike. From the opening notes of the title track, Yamamoto's piano sparkles with clarity and energy. The interplay between piano, bass, and drums is seamless, each musician responding to the others with a sense of spontaneity and cohesion that is the hallmark of great jazz. The trio's rendition of "I'm a Fool to Want You" is particularly noteworthy, with Yamamoto's lyrical improvisations painting a vivid emotional landscape.

Another standout album is "Misty, " which features the trio's impeccable interpretations of jazz standards. The title track, a staple of Yamamoto's repertoire, is rendered with a sensitivity and warmth that is simply captivating. Throughout the album, the trio's dynamic range and subtle interplay are on full display, highlighting their ability to move effortlessly between delicate ballads and more robust, swinging numbers.

Artistic Genius:

What makes Tsuyoshi Yamamoto a true genius in the world of jazz piano is his ability to blend technical mastery with heartfelt emotion. His touch on the piano is both precise and expressive, allowing him to convey a wide range of emotions through his music. His interpretations of jazz standards are both respectful of tradition and infused with his own unique voice, making each performance a fresh and engaging experience.

Yamamoto's compositions further illustrate his artistic vision. Pieces like "Blues" and "Autumn Leaves" reveal his deep understanding of jazz harmony and form, while also showcasing his ability to infuse his music with a sense of lyricism and narrative depth. His music is accessible yet profound, appealing to both seasoned jazz aficionados and casual listeners.

[paulhenner]

Instrument placing does not sound far left drums far is quite original TBM recordings were far better recorded !