Review: Mellow Dream from 1977 by Hokkaido's prodigious pianist Ryo Fukui gets another rieeus here after a first one back in 2018. Building upon previous album Scenery's foundation, Fukui delves deeper into modal, bop, and cool jazz realms with refined elegance. Mellow Dream ventures into mellower, soulful, and contemplative territories, epitomised by the Bill Evans-esque title cut 'My Foolish Heart' yet it retains Fukui's trademark vigour, showcased in the explosive jam 'Baron Potato Blues' and the monumental 'Horizon,' featuring exhilarating solos from each trio member. Fukui's second album, then, effortlessly traverses melancholy to vibrant joy, showing off in the process his rare blend of talent, personal style, and disciplined approach.
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