The pianist Ryo Fukui showed us a faint, comforting dream delicate touch, rich tone, and beautiful musical ideas. A superb second album in which he expresses himself even more deeply.
Recorded about a year after Scenery, his second album retains the delicacy and emotional depth of his playing, but adds a new strength that gives the world Fukui paints a clearer contour and striking dimensionality. From the bittersweet, heart‑stirring melody of “Mellow Dream” to the vibrant, exhilarating drive of “Horizon”, the album is filled with performances that shine brilliantly. It is also notable that the number of original compositions only one on the debut—has increased to three here, allowing listeners to appreciate Fukui’s musicality even more fully. Considering its maturity and the richness of its content, it may even be fair to say that this work surpasses his first album.
Ryo Fukui, who sadly passed away in 2016, left behind a legacy of delicate touch, lush tonal colors, and beautiful musical imagination. With deepest gratitude for the “Mellow Dream” he shared with us.
Text by Yusuke Ogawa (UNIVERSOUNDS / DEEP JAZZ REALITY)
※The world is paying close attention to the unparalleled quality of “Made in Japan”. This release features premium uncolored virgin vinyl, completely free of carbon or any other pigments that could affect sound quality. Using only high‑purity straight PVC and increasing the record weight to 180 grams ensures superior rotational stability and a richly expansive soundstage.
Experience its precisely crafted sonic imaging with this 180g heavyweight / pure vinyl edition.
