A lucid transparency is an important part of Makiko's and the trio's exquisite textural world, which always renders space to each instrument and individual personality. This intimate music soars with a wide wingspan. Makiko's firm but resonant touch, Hovman's authoritative and full bass, and the wonderful nuances and rhythmical complexities in Mazur's percussion and drumming, are all highlighted by a sublime recording from April 2008 by Bjarne Hansen in Copenhagen's Sun Studio.
HIDE AND SEEK mainly features Makiko's compositions. One could say that her music plays hide and seek with the many influences from classical and ethnic music - and naturally Scandinavian sounds. Marilyn Mazur contributes three compositions to a CD overflowing with poetic moods, pleasant and surprising lyricism, new tonalities, different grooves, and intense and rough textures contrasting dark and light, structure and lack of structure, aggressiveness and reflection.
Makiko Hirabayashi has matured artistically, and developed as a pianist and composer. She has exploited her background with great skill to create an original and engaging idiom of her own. In a world that keeps shrinking, she is a fascinating and modern multicultural artist.
Tracks
1. Hide And Seek (Hirabayashi)
2. Souls Of Tomorrow (Hirabayashi)
3. Deep Road (Mazur)
4. Rain (Hirabayashi)
5. Remember The Rain (Hirabayashi)
6. A Major (Hirabayashi)
7. Journey Waltz (Mazur)
8. Wings In July (Mazur)
9. Shady (Hirabayashi)
MAKIKO HIRABAYASHI piano
MARILYN MAZUR percussion
KLAVS HOVMAN double bass
Recorded April 2008 at Sun Studio, Copenhagen
Enja Records - 9192 Germany