Jazz-meets-electronics on Japan’s Rōnin Arkestra debut
Led by producer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Mark de Clive Lowe, Rōnin Arkestra brings together some of the most forward-thinking musicians in Japan’s thriving jazz and electronic scene.
On this recording, titled First Meeting, de Clive-Lowe (who is half-Japanese and half-New Zealander) is backed by an impressive cast of Japanese musicians that feature members from Kyoto Jazz Sextet, WONK, Cro-Magnon, Root Soul, Sleepwalker, Sauce81, and Kyoto Jazz Massive.
Overall, the sextet’s debut is a brilliant melding of jazz improvisation, soaring horn and piano-driven melodies, electronics, programmed beats, spacey synths, and groove oriented rhythms. Composed mostly by de Clive-Lowe, the EP also features an incredible rendition of John Coltrane’s 1964 masterpiece “A Love Supreme.”
This is a massive recording for this new Japanese-rooted collective, taking the fusion of jazz and electronic music to new heights. We can all just hope that the “second meeting” is right around the corner.
Rōnin Arkestra — ‘First Meeting’
(Albert’s Favourites)
1. Stranger Searching
2. Redeye Reprisal
3. The Silk Road Prelude
4. A Love Supreme
