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We Three Trio: The Gershwin Collection
Kuni Mikami, Piano
(Kuni Mikami Website)
Michio Takanashi, Bass
Akihiko Hasegawa, Drums
2005 What’s New Records
(Record Website)
Dr. Roberta E. Zlokower
April 8, 2007
Kuni Mikami and his trio are masters at interpreting this selection of renowned Gershwin ballads. They add ornamentations of rippling piano waterfalls, enticing percussion, and richly textured bass to create mesmerizing moods, as we evoke mental moments long past that relate to this memorable music.
All compositions by George Gershwin.
#1 – It Ain’t Necessarily So - This track opens with bass and drums kicking the Broadway beat with fused clavé rhythms. What a tantalizing interpretation, as Mikami hesitates now and then to highlight Michio Takanashi on bass and Akihiko Hasegawa on drums.
#2 – Embraceable You - Mikami takes a forthright lead in this swing-infused track. Hasegawa on brushes Takanashi on soft bass enrich the theme with warmth and echoing refrains. Mikami is a seasoned pro, and he leads this trio with aplomb.
#5 - I Got Rhythm - Solo percussion opens this dynamic track, and I imagined NY City Ballet in their signature Who Cares?. The temptation to dance is contagious, as Kuni Mikami exudes rambunctious rhythm, with Hasegawa driving drum rolls as well. The track fades at the finale, music wafting softly, but steady rhythm remains.
#9 - The Man I Love - One of my favorite ballads, the track opens with classically influenced piano in ethereal elegance. The trio creates quiet, esoteric interpretations, with Takanashi echoing Mikami on bass. This CD is delightfully listenable.
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