AT THE SLOWBOAT 2004

"I want to hear more of Ryo Fukui's performances." The dream of listeners around the world has now become a reality. A spectacular live performance full of the charm of the mature Fukui who has been with <Slowboat>.

This is what an unexpected joy is all about. The appearance of Ryo Fukui's "new work". Recorded on June 26, 2004. This is a live recording of a live performance commemorating the 9th anniversary of <Slowboat>, the jazz live house that Fukui presided over and used as the base of his activities. The members of the trio were Fukui, Kosuke Sakai (bass), and Yoshito Eto (drums). Fukui was 56 years old at the time.

His performance was powerful and large-scale, yet delicate and sharp. In terms of the balance of energy, stamina, and technique, he was just approaching his prime. He spins heavy yet elegant renditions of his beloved Phineas Newborn Jr. and Tommy Flanagan, and thrillingly plays Wayne Shorter, who he was a huge fan of in his youth. It is a spectacular performance that reflects the fulfillment of Fukui's time. <Slowboat>, which opened in June 1995, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

Text by Yusuke Ogawa (UNIVERSOUNDS / DEEP JAZZ REALITY)