Hiromi: The Trio Project, a Masterclass Jazz Performance

Howdy Folks!

Hiromi is an artist that I’ve listened to off and on for a few years, but when I saw that she was finally playing near me, along with two other legendary musicians (James Genus and Simon Phillips), I absolutely had to go see this performance.

I am so glad I was able to see this show, not only because of how amazing it was, but also because it was my first time experiencing The Dakota as well, and it was a wonderful intimate venue, perfect for these kinds of shows.

Now for the performance itself, the only real word I can use for it is masterful. Jazz has always been one of my favorite genres, and in my opinion one of the most expressive too, since literal conversations are happening between the instruments and musicians themselves, just without words. This was a whole other level of elevation, though, really showing how incredible these three were. When these songs can go on for 8+ minutes and not a word is spoken, but a nod lets the drummer know to ramp up, or Hiromi repeats a section again to let the drummer rebuild, it was so amazing to watch it all go on.

I was particularly awestruck hearing Flashback and Voices live. Flashback for that haunting melody in the beginning (that I still haven’t gotten out of my head), and Voices for the shocking intro that it provided for the night, setting an immediate tone of perfection. What was great about it was that it also immediately drew in the crowd, demanding silence and attention (not that most people going to a jazz show on a Monday night are the rowdy kind), and really made you focus on what the band was offering us on stage.

Hiromi herself is also genuinely one of the most vibrant and expressive pianists I’ve ever seen perform, literally standing and jumping at certain points, interacting with the crowd, and showing such emotion on her face that proved she truly loved exactly what she was putting out into the world. I had an absolute blast watching her sit at the keys, and I hope I can get the chance to catch this trio again at some point.

If you haven’t been to The Dakota, or seen Hiromi, I highly recommend both for an incredible night of masterful jazz musicianship and some frankly delicious food (I had the lamb skewers and focaccia, and it was INCREDIBLE) at a nice, intimate venue. I know I’ll be on the lookout for more shows like this as well.