Home » Jazz Articles » Album Review » Shu Odamura: Cloud Illusions
Shu Odamura: Cloud Illusions
ByOdamura has a definite affinity with Latin forms. "Viko" is a tango, while "Primera Vez" and "Say Hello To Oscar" are both sambas. The rhythm section gives each one a distinctive feel, too: there's nothing generic about the writing or the playing."Dear Boston" is the ballad of the set, showcasing guitar and double bass in duet (Yamada also plays electric bass on several tracks).
"Blue Space" starts out rubato, then settles into the blues feel promised by the title: a nice earthy contrast with the modern jazz sound of the rest of the program. There's a lovely waltz also ("Onsen Waltz") for which Uchida brings out the brushes. "Beyond The Clouds" recalls Ralph Towner with its finger-picked introduction (as had the opening tune). "Believe" closes the set on a gentle, hopeful note.
Shu Odamura makes an impressive debut with Cloud Illusions. He's not a flashy player, but possesses solid technique and a distinctive classical guitar sound; he's a fine composer; and he's got a hot, sympathetic rhythm section. Looking forward to hearing more from him.
Track Listing
Rain; Viko; Primera Vez; Dear Boston; Blue Space; Onsen Waltz; Say Hello To Oscar; Flowing Colors; Beyond The Clouds; Believe.
Personnel
Shu Odamura
guitarShu Odamura: guitar; Yoshiki Yamada: electric bass, double bass; Yutaka Uchida: drums.
Album information
Title: Cloud Illusions | Year Released: 2016 | Record Label: What's New Records