Chihiro Yamanaka - Outside By The Swing (2005)

'Outside by the Swing' appeared in 2005 (not 2009, as actually mentioned on the allmusic.com website). This strong album includes Yamanaka on piano, Robert Hurst on bass and Jeff Watts on drums. Four original compositions are on the list, such as the excellent composition 'Living Without Friday' which also appeared on her 2001 debut album of the same name on the Sawano label. Highlights include the traditional Japanese piece 'Yagibushi', and her composition '2:30 rag', which dates from her College years at Berklee. There is a nice balance between original compositions and standards (such as Cleopatra's Dream from B. Powell). Even one nice interpretation of a composition of Serge Gainsbourg is part of the album. Liner notes from George Russell resume quite well the enormous talent and skills of that excellent pianist.