Aki Takase's captivating album, Aki Takase Plays Fats Waller, is a masterful tribute to the legendary jazz pianist Fats Waller. Released on 29 October 2013 via Jazzwerkstatt, this 59-minute masterpiece delves into the realms of free jazz and avant-garde, showcasing Aki Takase's unique interpretation of Waller's iconic compositions.
The album's tracklist is a thoughtful curation of Waller's classics, including 'Viper's Drag', 'Handful of Keys', and 'Ain't Misbehavin'', alongside innovative pieces such as 'Kuroneko Yamato - Hold Tight' and 'Tintenfisch in Wien'. Aki Takase's bold approach to these timeless tunes is evident in her rendition of 'Your Feet's Too Big' and 'Any Tune, but Fats Tune', where she effortlessly blends tradition with experimentation.
With 'Way Down South Where the Blues Began' and 'Joint Is Jumpin'', Aki Takase demonstrates her profound understanding of the jazz genre, while her avant-garde sensibilities shine through in the album's more unconventional moments. The result is a rich and dynamic listening experience that not only honours Fats Waller's legacy but also showcases Aki Takase's remarkable artistry. Through this album, Aki Takase proves herself to be a visionary pianist, capable of pushing the boundaries of jazz while remaining true to its spirit.
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