Mayuko Katakura: Inspiration
Pianist Mayuko Katakura’s 2009 debut album Inspiration immediately impresses. The album kicks off at a rapid pace with “Blues For Tyner”, a tribute to one of her jazz inspirations pianist McCoy Tyner. Right from this fierce opening, Katakura’s amazing technique is on full display with angular, acrobatic lines flying through this up-tempo tune.
In addition to speed, Katakura’s confident jazz piano sense extends to bluesy grooves and touching sensitivity. This is a pianist who plays with a dedication to the music and to those she has been inspired by. The ten tracks on Inspiration, with originals and nicely-arranged standards, make this a well-balanced set with a variety of tempos and moods.
Inspiration by Mayuko Katakura
Mayuko Katakura - piano
Yasushi Nakamura - bass
Carl Allen - drums
Released in 2009 on Pony Canyon as MYCJ-30554.
Japanese names: Mayuko Katakura 片倉真由子 Yasushi Nakamura 中村恭士
Audio and Video
Performance of "Linden Blvd" with Mayuko Katakura and the Kiyoshi Kitakawa trio
Excerpt from "Blues for Tyner", the first track on this album: