Wildflower by Keiko Matsui

20 Jan

Written by Sheldon T. Nunn
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Of all the musicians in contemporary music today, pianist Keiko Matsui is by far one of the most creative and innovative entertainers of her generation. Having recei…

Of all the musicians in contemporary music today, pianist Keiko Matsui is by far one of the most creative and innovative entertainers of her generation. Having received numerous accolades as the top contemporary/smooth jazz female artist in 2000 and 2001, it can be said that she is not just a jazz musician in the usual sense of the word, she is the epitome of instrumental musical excellence. For over 27 years, Keiko Matsui has expressed herself as an instrumentalist and has been extremely popular amongst aficionados of jazz, new age and popular music. At various times during her career, she has been difficult to classify, yet she continues to top the jazz charts at every juncture. With 16 albums to her credit, Keiko comes forth with her latest release entitled 'Wildflower,' a much heralded recording that benefits the United Nations World Food Programme.

Just as Matsui has done so many times during her career, this newest effort combines the influences of various classical and contemporary elements into yet another distinctive endeavor. On a more predictable note, 'Wildflower' once again defies the confines of jazz classification. In many ways, Keiko cannot be limited to just one small box of expression. Her approach to her craft is very well-rounded and fuses the influences of both American and Asian cultures. She is melodic and expressive, yet very adept at bridging the distinctive characteristics of varying genres into very likeable music.

The beauty of Keiko Matsui's music is not necessarily found in jazz, it is all the fundamental aspects of her remarkable talent. With the release of 'Wildflower,' another vivid picturesque vision of excellence has been achieved. This artist is one of those individuals who is tireless, energetic, thought-provoking and dynamic, and if listened to enough times one can expect to develop a tireless ear for her recordings in the process. Anyone who finds themselves inside the listening experience of Keiko Matsui is sure to be mesmerized and intrigued by the sensuality of this very fine musician. Acoustically speaking, the opportunity to be exposed to every lyrical element of 'Wildflower' is magical and mystical.

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Keiko Matsui
CD Title: Wildflower
Genre: Smooth Jazz
Year Released: 2004
Record Label: Narada Jazz
Tracks: Flashback, Facing up, Sense of Journey, Brand New Wind, Eldest of All, Reflections, White Castle, Temple of Life, Seeker, Stone Circle, Wildflower
Musicians: Keiko Matsui (piano), Tomohito Aoki (bass), Akira Jimbo (drums, percussion), Shinobu Ishizaki, Masamichi Nanji (soprano sax)
Label Website: -
Rating: Four Stars