VA - Sensational Jazz '70 Vol. 1+2 [1970] + VA - Sensational Jazz '70 Vol. 0 [2015] (3 x CDs)

SUNDAY JAZZ

SENSATIONAL JAZZ SERIES

VA - Sensational Jazz '70 Vol. 1+2 [1970] + VA - Sensational Jazz '70 Vol. 0 [2015] (3 x CDs)

The Sensational Jazz '70 series is a real hidden gem, capturing the electrifying jazz scene in Japan during one of its most experimental periods. Spread across two volumes, originally released on vinyl, Sensational Jazz '70 Vol. 1+2 been reissued on CD and remains a sought-after collector’s item. Vol. 0 release in 2015 is also included in this collection. It feels like stepping into a time machine, landing right in the middle of 1970’s jazz revolution.

Recorded live at Shibuya Public Hall on April 30, 1970, it documents a pivotal moment in Japanese jazz history. Features performances from legendary artists such as Jiro Inagaki, Takeshi Inomata, Akira Ishikawa, Terumasa Hino, and Mototeru Takagi. reflecting the chaos and transformation of jazz in Japan at the time.

These albums are snapshots of a moment when jazz was pushing boundaries, blending hard bop, soul-jazz, and even early jazz-rock influences. The musicians featured here were true pioneers, delivering dynamic, unpredictable performances that still sound fresh today. Vol. 0 adds a fascinating layer by bringing previously unheard recordings into the mix, making it an essential companion to the original release.

Listening to this series feels like being in a smoky jazz club, surrounded by musicians who were redefining the genre in real time. There’s an urgency in the performances; tracks that twist, turn, and explode with energy. Whether it’s fiery solos or deep, hypnotic grooves, you can tell that these artists weren’t playing it safe. This was jazz in its purest form, free, fearless, and full of surprises.

If you love rare finds, Sensational Jazz '70 is a dream come true. Sensational Jazz '70 Vol. 0, in particular, is a vinyl-only release, making it a special piece for collectors who appreciate the richness of analog sound. The mastering is superb, preserving the raw essence of the original recordings while giving them new life for modern listeners.

At the end of the day, this series isn’t just about jazz; it’s about innovation, risk-taking, and the thrill of discovering something extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz fan or just dipping your toes into rare grooves, Sensational Jazz '70 is a journey worth taking. (B)

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Track lists

Vol. 0

1 Takeshi Inomata and Sound L.T.D. - Joint 7:01

2 Jiro Inagaki and His Soul Media - The Vamp 17:06

3 Akira Ishikawa and His Count Buffalos - Back to Rack 15:03

4 Toshiyuki Miyama and His New Herd - Message to the Moon 10:19

Vol. 1

01 Terumasa Hino & Toshiyuki Miyama and His New Herd - Twilight in Nemu 10:42

02 Itaru Oki Trio - Mood 10:21

03 Terumasa Hino Quintet & George Ohtsuka - Toko 10:19

04 Mototeru Takagi Trio - Four Units 9:18

Vol. 2

01 Akira Ishikawa and His Count Buffalos - Blue Soul 8:25

02 Hiroshi Suzuki Sextet - Mira 13:09

03 Jiro Inagaki and His Soul Media - Score 8:32

04 Takeshi Inomata and Sound L.T.D. - Mustache 9:05

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Music weaves itself into the fabric of our emotions, dances through the corridors of memory, and whispers to the soul of who we are. Sharing these stories deepens the connection, turning the experience into something timeless and profound.

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