Art Hirahara Open Sky Review

Art Hirahara is a jazz keyboardist and composer based in New York, NY. that is comfortable performing in a wide range of musical situations ranging from straight-ahead standards to time cycle-based progressive jazz to free improvisation. From the traditional to the avant-garde, Hirahara has a sound of his own that cuts across genres and boundaries. He has played in New York city’s premier venues, including Birdland, Smalls, Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Jazz Standard, and 55 Bar. In addition to performing, Hirahara has taught master classes domestically and abroad and has taught at the Brooklyn-Queens Conservatory and was a performing member of NY PopsEd, an educational organization focusing on bringing music to elementary and secondary schools.

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About the Album

Hirahara is releasing his sixth album via the Posi-Tone label called Open Sky. Hirahara presents thirteen songs that combine both original compositions by Hirahara and charming arrangements. Playing alongside Hirahara is bassist Boris Kozlov and drummer Rudy Royston and guest appearances from saxophonist Nicole Glover and vibraphonist Behn Gillece.

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Our Favorite Tracks

“Groundswell” is the opening selection by Hirahara. The melody is modern and flows through various sections and rhythmic structures. The trio is interactive, especially Royston and Hirahara. Hirahara’s use of four and five-note motifs develop his single-note lines in a pleasing and methodical manner. A strong opening statement by the trio.

“Mia Bella” is another strong original by Hirahara and features guest saxophonist Nicole Glover. Glover’s breathy saxophone is key in conveying the tenderness of the theme with a relaxed tempo and flowing melody. Kozlov’s bow playing is supportive, and Royston’s brushes dance cross-rhythms around Hirahara and Glover. Glover becomes more and more active for her solo, as does Hirahara’s accompaniment; this is a compelling emotional build and another strong musical statement on the album.

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In Conclusion

Open Sky shows Hirahara’s broad palette of harmony, styles, and strength as a composer. The trio works well together, and their combination of talents brings the music to life. Open Sky is a documentation of an artist who constantly seeks new situations to challenge himself. The compositions and arrangements allow for well-oiled improvisations with strong shapes and melodic weight. It certainly does not hurt that Hirahara is open to other styles; this makes the music refreshing from many modern jazz contemporaries.