Akiko

"Akiko’s Holiday"

( Universal) 2003

Akiko: All vocals

Bruce Flowers: Piano, Fender Rhodes

Reggie Washington: Bass

Terreon Gully: Drums, Percussion

Brother Jacques: Sax, Flute, Other

Roy Hargrove: Trumpet

Neal Evans: Hammond B3 organ

Mark Whitfield: Electric Guitar     

In a very short time, akiko has become one of the most important and nuanced jazz singers in Japan. Her latest CD, akiko’s holiday, is her best yet. Combining her jazz roots with contemporary interests, she leads the listener through nicely updated standards that showcase her sophisticated phrasing and sultry delivery.

The band is outstanding, which keeps the energy level high on every tune. The band moves strongly, with a powerful flexibility and quick changes of pace. Akiko uses that energy to drive her singing further. She listens to the band and keeps together with them, rather than forcing them to simply follow her lead. At other times, she pulls them forward, jumping ahead enthusiastically.

Akiko shows a wide range and diverse facets on this release. “Come Rain or Come Shine” bounces forward with sprightly energy, while, “Easy Living” slips into a Brazilian lilt that’s warm and lovely. As the songs progress, she gradually eases from straight ahead arrangements towards heavier electric bass and synthesized atmospherics. To listen to the first song, “My Man,” and then skip to the tenth song, “Gee Baby, Ain’t I Good to You,” with its desultory funk and harmonic shifts, one might think it’s an entirely different CD. Somehow, though, the gradual transition works well, and the songs are coherent because  of akiko’s voice, rather than because of sticking to one single style.

The other songs are delivered with a knowing irony. “Love For Sale” is more testament to independence than self-pitying lament. Her expressions and phrasing pull out unexpected meaning and strong subtexts from the original. “God Bless the Child” is given soulful, gospel touches. “You’ve Changed” slows to acoustic subtlety, with only light guitar, as she pulls and shapes the melody lines into her own creation. “Don’t Explain” is given a late-night, chill-out room feel, with programming and sultry Hammond B3 organ grooves.

What really appeals throughout every song is her honesty. Rather than hiding behind technique or feigning emotion, she opens herself up fearlessly. The result is intensely personal and warmly human. Her phrases have a confident way of revealing her inside feelings. This CD is sure to please akiko’s fans, and even old-style jazz purists who might resist the modern beats and arrangements will be won over by the sheer, joyous energy of her vocals.