Mabumi Yamaguchi Quartet - LEEWARD [Pure Vinyl](LP)

A supple, dynamic groove. Beautiful melodies. Hard bop, jazz-rock, fusion. None of these labels can fully capture the essence of this album. A pure masterpiece shines once again.

Artist：Mabumi Yamaguchi Quartet
Title：LEEWARD [Pure Vinyl]
Format：LP
CAT#：TEA-56
Barcode：4988004191091
Price：$50
Label：Teichiku Entertainment
Japan Release Date：February 24th, 2027

A supple, dynamic groove. Beautiful melodies. Hard bop, jazz-rock, fusion. None of these labels can fully capture the essence of this album. A pure masterpiece shines once again.

Affectionately known among fans as Mabumi no Senpuuki (Mabumi's Electric Fan), "Leeward" is a highly acclaimed album by saxophonist Mabumi Yamaguchi, who had previously performed with the George Otsuka Group and the Korgen Band (later known as The Players). Recorded in 1978, it was Yamaguchi's second album as a leader.

The album consists of four compositions: "Dawn," "Dewdrop," "Distant Thunder," and "Leeward." The titles and musical themes resonate with one another, creating vivid images that unfold before the listener.

The grooves combine remarkable dynamism with supple rhythmic energy, while the melodies are both dignified and deeply moving. Hard bop, jazz-rock, fusion. All of these descriptions apply, yet none truly captures the essence of the music.

This album needs no labels or categorization. It is, quite simply, a pure masterpiece.

Text by Yusuke Ogawa (UNIVERSOUNDS / DEEP JAZZ REALITY)

Tracklist:
Side A
01. Dawn
02. Dewdrop

Side B
01. Distant Thunder
02. Leeward