It was exhilarating to sit front row at this gig at Kamome in Yokohama. Yume-Goto are a group attempting something very new, using the shakuhachi as the lead in an experimental jazz setting. They were haunting, mysterious, soaring, complex and beautiful. The mix of the effects-laden trumpet, shakuhachi, acoustic bass, drums and the remarkable sound of the sanukite stones created something unique, unlike any live music I have ever encountered (and you can believe that Mr. OK Jazz has seen a LOT of live music..)

The sanukite stones are found only in the mountains of Shikoku, home of shakuhachi player Miyazaki-san, and master drummer Tomikawa Masashi. Miyazaki-san drove them up to Tokyo specially for this gig, but generally only comes up two ro three times a year. I'll be at their next gig for sure. お疲れさま, Neil, Jeff, Masashi and Miyazaki-san!