Fumi Hayakawa - Diary (2025)

Nagoya-based saxophonist Fumi Hayakawa's second album, "Diary," features recording members Hirotaro Hiramitsu (piano), Yukito Shimizu (guitar), Hideki Hasegawa (bass), and Hiro Omori (drums). This session recording was conducted with talented Nagoya musicians of the same generation. Six of the seven tracks are originals, making for an ambitious album. The album begins with the diary track "Diary," followed by "Saturdays," a fast-swing track that evokes a desire for travel, reminiscent of original '90s jazz numbers. The jazz waltz "XIX (Ninteen)" is named after a restaurant on the 19th floor with panoramic city views. Other unique tracks follow, concluding with "June 15," a melancholic, rainy-day track. The supporting musicians' outstanding performances are also a must-listen. This album explores Hayakawa's own musical journey while exploring the expressive potential of the alto saxophone.