Ryo Fukui Trio at the Slowboat 2004 (Japan Vinyl 2LP)

“I want to hear more of Ryo Fukui’s performances.” The dream of listeners around the world will now become a reality.

A stunning live performance filled with the charm of Fukui’s maturity, who has been with Slow Boat ever since!

This is what an unexpected joy is. This is the appearance of Ryo Fukui’s “new work”. Recorded on June 26, 2004. This is a live recording of a live performance commemorating the 9th anniversary of Slow Boat, the jazz live house that Fukui presided over and used as the base of his activities. The members were a trio consisting of Fukui, Kosuke Sakai (bass), and Yoshito Eto (drums). Fukui was 56 years old at the time. His performance was powerful and large-scale, yet delicate and sharp. In terms of the balance of energy, physical strength, and technique, he was just approaching his prime. He spins the music of his beloved Phineas Newborn Jr. and Tommy Flanagan in a heavy and elegant way, and plays Wayne Shorter, who he was devoted to in his youth, in a thrilling way. This is a spectacular performance that reflects the fulfillment of Fukui at that time. Slow Boat, which opened in June 1995, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. [text by Yusuke Ogawa (UNIVERSOUNDS / DEEP JAZZ REALITY)]

• Bass – Benisuke Sakai
• Drums – Yoshihito Eto
• Piano – Ryo Fukui