Trumpeter Jun Iida’s warm, inviting tone, astute composition choices and his sublime sense of melody lead the way on his debut recording. After spending 5 years in Los Angeles and 3 in Seattle, Evergreen memorializes the musical focus and development that transpired over those years, as he moves on to new adventures in New York. Recorded in Los Angeles, Jun brought together L.A. friends Josh Nelson on piano, guitarist Masami Kuroki and bassist Jonathan Richards, along with the dynamic Seattle drummer Xavier Lecouturier. New York vocalist Aubrey Johnson brilliantly adds to Jun’s soaring melodies with her often wordless vocals, and sings in Japanese on a song from Jun’s childhood, “Akatombo,” and the J-pop anime song “Shiki no Uta,” both in a nod to Jun’s family heritage. Between the swinging “Gooey Butter Cake” and “Bellarosa,” to the haunting “Theme from Spartacus,” or the spacious title track, Jun shares a sparkling and compelling message that’s sure to resonate.
Released January 19, 2024on Origin Records.
Iida’s debut album as leader, Evergreen
JUN IIDA - TRUMPET
AUBREY JOHNSON - VOCALS
MASAMI KUROKI - GUITAR
JOSH NELSON - PIANO, RHODES
JONATHAN RICHARDS - BASS
XAVIER LECOUTURIER - DRUMS
Produced by Jun Iida / Co-produced by Josh Nelson
Recorded by Talley Sherwood at Tritone Recording, Los Angeles, CA
(November 22-23, 2022)
class="">“All compositions are reflective of both his Japanese heritage and his command and fluency in jazz composition and stylings, the two worlds being complementary and mutually enriching on this showing. The diversity of mood and style, not to mention thoughtful programming of tracks, is a real strength of this album. All in all, there is a great deal to enjoy here.”
– London Jazz News
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