When you assemble three of the music industries finest musicians you’re bound to hear a one of a kind gem. On this occasion, a group called “The Trio” features the impeccable voice of Japan’s very own Makoto Ozone on piano, & fender Rhodes also with the incomparable James Genus on the acoustic bass and the charismatic Clarence Penn on drums to record an exceptional project titled “Real” on Concord Records. —Rob Young
The Trio - Real
The Trio | Real – [Concord Records, 2006]
.:|:. A premier jazz musician in Japan, Makoto Ozone has made a successful transition to America, where he became equally prominent in this nation’s improvisational community. He began on organ at four, then took up piano as a teenager. He went to Berklee in 1980 and studied composing and arranging. He was noticed by Gary Burton and later recorded with him and was part of his band.
Ozone’s striking ability (especially on mid-tempo pieces) and impressive technique made him a big hit at the Kool Jazz Festival. His 1984 debut recording featured Burton and bassist Eddie Gomez. It was a stunning example of complete knowledge and mastery of the full jazz piano spectrum. Ozone later worked with European pianist Michel Petrucciani and spent extensive time studying classical music.
..:: Source: AllMusic.com ::..
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