Search - Misako Kano :: Watch Out

Misako & company blow wild and free

J. Levinson | Media, PA USA | 10/15/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This album opens with a baby's wail, and the sound of a squeeze toy echoed by Thom Chapin's wailing alto. Misako joins in on piano, leading Chapin into a delicate yet warped version of a lullaby, which seems to end after a few minutes, but instead transitions into a driving post-bop jam that lives up to the title, "Cat Scramble". Thom Chapin gets a long solo, followed by Misako, who throws a lot of powerful chord pounding into her solo as well as fast runs. This slim little Japanese gal is no shrinking violet behind the keys. Though Misako composed most of these tunes, Chapin is the most prominent voice throughout, making this album a showcase of his talents as well. The second track, "Zeugma" is another lengthy jam, which finds Misako supporting Chapin's solo effectively with sympathetic comping. She gently nudges the harmonic boundaries in the directions she wants him to explore, then takes off into free space of her own with her solo, running wild before dwelling on hypnotic patterns. Attentive drummer Matt Wilson is a strong asset throughout, and Kiyoto Fujiwara is also solid in support. The album closes with a solo piece by Misako, which again shows that she can float like a hummingbird but sting like a dragonfly when she wants to. After all, she warned you to "Watch Out!""