Japanese jazz

Japanese Jazz Collection

Japanese Jazz is a rich and diverse musical genre that fuses Western and traditional Japanese influences. Explore haunting compositions, subtle arrangements and captivating improvisations that reflect the unique fusion of these two cultures. Here you'll find all the original pressings, vintage reissues and recent releases that will enrich your Japanese Jazz collection.

Iconic artists

Japanese jazz began to develop a dynamic and prolific scene in the 1960s. It was at this time that many Japanese musicians were influenced by Western jazz and began to develop their own style and musical approach. Since then, Japanese jazz has continued to evolve and develop, with new talent and musical innovation enriching the genre over the decades.

Emblematic artists include such figures as Toshiko Akiyoshi, a renowned pianist and composer who has left her mark on the genre with her orchestra and its unique blend of jazz and Asian sounds. Saxophonist Sadao Watanabe has also helped popularise Japanese jazz on a global scale thanks to his virtuosity and ability to blend styles. Ryo Fukui, Japanese jazz pianist, has created timeless compositions imbued with emotion and virtuosity. Trumpeter Terumasa Hino has brought a distinctive voice to the genre with his expressive sound and creative playing. Other artists such as Hiroshi Suzuki, Kimiko Kasai, Tadao Hayashi, Kazumi Watanabe, Hiromasa Suzuki and Yasuaki Shimizu have also left their mark on Japanese jazz by exploring new sounds and pushing back the boundaries of the genre.