Recommendation of Wa-Jazz: A Masterpiece of Japanese Jazz—One Must-Listen Album
If you’re not particularly interested in jazz as a genre, you might just think of it as music from abroad.
In fact, here in Japan, we’ve produced many world-class players, and countless remarkable classic albums have been released.
This time, we’re presenting a selection of essential “Wa-Jazz” masterpieces by Japanese musicians.
While focusing on timeless classics from the ’60s and ’70s, the lineup also turns its attention to works released in the ’90s and 2000s.
Please enjoy jazz music with a distinctly Japanese flavor—something a little different from overseas jazz!
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Recommendations for Wa-Jazz: Masterpieces of Japanese Jazz – One Must-Listen Pick (41–50)
Cherry on the beakEGO-WRAPPIN’
One of EGO-WRAPPIN’s signature songs, this number features an arrangement driven by ska rhythms.
Released in 2002, it’s a work from over a decade ago, yet even now—whether you listen to it or watch it—it feels fresh.
It’s not about logic; it’s just plain cool.
Metropolice→Pia-no-jaC←
This is a classic album by Piano Jack, offering a hybrid sound with just jazz piano and cajón.
The tracks feature performances with highly challenging chord progressions, letting listeners enjoy the high level of technique.
The artist is also gaining attention as a rising star in the jazz scene.
I look up as I walkMaya Hatch
Ue o Muite Arukou, sung by vocalist Maya Hatch, who shines across various genres, is delivered gently with a drumless trio.
She’s young, but her voice has a calm maturity—you could listen to it forever.
I’d love to hear her live someday.
Give Up on SummerJUJU
This song was performed at “Snack JuJu,” where JUJU transforms her live venue into a snack bar once a year and puts on a special show.
It features a luxurious jazz arrangement with added orchestration.
This track is included on “Snack JUJU: Night Requests.”
kick-upErikku Miyashiro
From trumpet player Eric Miyashiro—third-generation Japanese American born in Hawaii—here is “Kick Up” from his album Kick Up.
There’s no doubt you’ll be thrilled by the soaring high notes unleashed by this high-note hitter.
This is a disc that will give you goosebumps.
Moonlight LegendErikku Miyagi Supesharu Biggu Bando
The anime’s opening theme has transformed into a cool swing jazz number.
Performed by a star-studded lineup, it features a special big band led by Eric Miyashiro, one of Japan’s premier trumpeters.
It’s an absolutely lavish performance—hard to believe it’s aimed at children!
Fortune Cookie in LoveHirai Ken
A song performed at Ken Hirai’s drink-included acoustic live show, “Ken’s Bar.” It features a cool jazz arrangement, starting with a duo intro with upright bass—so stylish you’d hardly believe the original was an idol song!