Ayumi Tanaka Trio - Subaqueous Silence

Pianist Ayumi Tanaka's debut album Subaqueous Silence on ECM – following critically acclaimed releases with Thomas Stronen (Lucus, Bayou) – is a strikingly original statement. Tanaka met bassist Christian Meaas Svendsen and drummer Per Oddvar Johansen shortly after arriving in Oslo ten years ago, and together they have developed their musical language while exploring the influences of Ayumi's compositions. A deep interest in the work of Norwegian improvisers led Tanaka to move to the West, but he also speaks of a growing awareness of his own cultural roots; his playing has an ascetic uncompromisingness and a sense of space that references Japanese classical music. Ayumi sees the trio "more as a chamber music ensemble. We share a flow of energy, even in silence." Per Oddvar Johansen's subtle drumming has previously been featured on excellent recordings with Trygve Seim, Christian Wallumrød, and others. Christian Meaas Svendsen makes his ECM debut on the Subaqueous Silence label; his intensely expressive arco bass on the track "Black Rain" is one of the highlights of the album.