Ryo Fukui Trio: Ryo Fukui Trio at the Slowboat 2004 (Pure Vinyl Disc/180g Heavyweight Vinyl)

2026 release. The record is made with luxuriously uncolored virgin vinyl, completely free of coloring agents such as carbon, which can affect sound quality. Made entirely from high-purity straight vinyl chloride, the record weight has been increased to 180g, achieving stable rotation and a rich sound field. The 180g heavyweight/pure vinyl specification allows you to enjoy a refined sound image.

"I want to hear more of Ryo Fukui's music." The dream of listeners worldwide has now become a reality. This stunning live performance, filled with the mature charm of Fukui, who has been with Slow Boat ever since.

This is truly an unexpected joy. This is the arrival of a new work from Ryo Fukui. Recorded on June 26, 2004, this recording is a live performance commemorating the 9th anniversary of Slow Boat, the jazz live house Fukui founded and based at. The trio consisted of Fukui, Kosuke Sakai (bass), and Yoshito Eto (drums). Fukui was 56 years old at the time. His performances were powerful and expansive, yet also delicate and sharp. In terms of the balance of energy, stamina, and technique, he was approaching the peak of his maturity.

He weaves together the music of his beloved Phineas Newborn Jr. and Tommy Flanagan with a powerful yet lustrous quality, and thrillingly plays Wayne Shorter, a musician he admired in his youth. This is a stunning performance that reflects Fukui's fulfillment at this time.

Text by Yusuke Ogawa (UNIVERSOUNDS / DEEP JAZZ REALITY)