Two of the six songs are instrument-based tracks that feature Aratake’s expressive playing that supports bluesy harmonica playing together and warm string arrangements. Vocalist Ryutaro Makino joins on the other four songs, including Aratake’s “Family” and “Say We Love”. The violins, violas, and cellos in the string section add a classy texture to much of the album and, together with the song selection and arrangements, shifts the music into orchestral pop territory. The recorded live sound also captures the expansive feeling of a large stage and concert hall filled with an audience of fans.

In addition to bluesy songs, romantic ballads, and pop, the album’s jazzier moments include Makino singing Ellington’s “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” at a quick finger-snapping pace. Another listener favorite is Aratake’s own “Yuyake (Red Sunset)” with its modern Latin character and irresistible rhythm.

Audio and Video

• Video of “Yuyake”, track #4 on this album:

• Video of “It Don’t Mean A Thing”, track #2 on this album:

• Excerpt from track #1: “Sepia”

This album features a special Bösendorfer Imperial Concert Grand piano, the deep and full tones echoing beautifully as the pianist moves freely through his selection of originals and familiar covers (“I Loves You, Porgy”, “Round About Midnight”, “What The World Needs Now”, “Blackbird”).

In addition to solo piano, 3 of the 12 tracks feature duos: a piano and sax outing on the warm “Family”, a bluesy “Born To Be Blue” for piano and bass, and a vibrant outpouring on “Grumbling Sky”, a piano and drums duo, the one spot on the album which departs from the otherwise tranquil mood. Aside from this charged track, the otherwise quiet solo piano ballads consistently evoke peace and love, ringing through this album with a comforting sense of togetherness.

Audio and Video

• Yuichiro Aratake trio playing live in 2014:

• Excerpt from track #1: “I loves You,Porgy”