Scenery (half speed remastered) vinyl

Recently there has been a spate of reissues focused on the work of Japanese jazz pianist Ryo Fukui, who passed away two years ago. This could well be the best of a lot. It no doubt helps that Scenery, the jazz stalwart's 1976 debut album, arguably remains his finest work. It was recorded with the accompaniment of a bassist and drummer, piano trio style, but there's no doubt that Fukui's ivory-tinkling exploits is the star of the show. It's evident from start to finish, with the fluid and distinctive solos flitting between poise, poignancy and positivity. The album was re-mastered at half speed, too, guaranteeing sparkling sound throughout.