M. Sato, J. Inagaki & His Big Soul Media - Bridge Over Troubled Water (RSD Japanese Exclusive 2021)

A sweet little set from Japanese keyboardist Masahiko Sato – one that has him playing both acoustic and electric piano, amidst a set of larger backings from Jiro Inagaki and his Big Soul Media group! The sound here is really unique – a bit like some of the fuller American jazz sides at the end of the 70s, but cast out with colors, tones, and changes that are a fair bit different too. There's certainly funky and groovy elements to the album, but also a sound that's a bit more sophisticated too – not nearly as modern or out as some of Sato's other records, but with enough echoes of them to keep things interesting. Other players include Ryo Kawasaki on guitar and Shunzo Ohno on trumpet – and tracks include "Sniper's Snooze", "Serenity", "Guru", "Love & Peace", and "Somethin Goin On".