Miki Kono: For My Mother

From her native Japan, pianist Miki Kono visits New York frequently where this (her third) album was recorded with bassist Rufus Reid and drummer Joe Chambers. In her fanciful, fluid Kenny Barron-styled ballads, Kono’s light touch exudes underlying energy. She beguiles with pleasing melodies, catchy rhythms and adds special sparkle to uptempo numbers. As composer of all but one of ten tunes, she truly shines. Inspired, comfortably-locked teamwork, augmented by trumpeter Patric Rickman, contributes to this tasteful session.

Originally Published December 1, 1997