It can express the richness of life. Musician Nariaki Obukuro talks about jazz

Jazz may be the music that musicians are most passionate about right now. Rock, hip-hop, R&B... How do musicians perceive the appeal of jazz? We spoke to musician Nariaki Obukuro about it, recommending three albums.

First published in BRUTUS No. 1002 "JAZZ is POP!!" (released February 15, 2024)

photo: Wakana Baba / text: Shunsuke Kamigaito

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A complex and beautiful story woven by sound

There are a lot of record collectors in the neighborhoods I hang out in London, and when I DJ with them I often use jazz to connect the atmosphere. Because it's so deeply rooted in the culture, it gets the crowd excited even when played in between house music. I believe music isn't just about the sound of a single chord or lyric; it's about the connections between what comes before and what comes after it that weave a story.

Jazz is able to express the richness of life precisely because it combines complexity and beauty. I've come to understand this more deeply since I entered my 30s and gained more experience. In an age where topics are consumed in the moment, it reminds us of the importance of enjoying art with a broad perspective.

Three recommended items selected by Kobukuro Nariaki

Q1: What is your all-time favorite?

『Directstep』Herbie Hancock

This is a studio recording made during the band's tour of Japan in 1978. Some of the tracks are over 15 minutes long, but it's a masterpiece that never feels like a waste of time, no matter how many times you listen to it. The overall level of perfection is so high that it's like watching a movie. There's something cool about the way they restrain themselves from trying to express emotion with their technique, and continue their performance calmly.

Q2: What did you listen to the most in 2023?

『In a Silent Way』Miles Davis

I was DJing in Kyoto until the early hours, and I played this record just as the sun was coming up from behind the mountains. Everyone on the dance floor closed their eyes and swayed, and time passed by in a relaxed manner. I almost cried. It was a valuable experience to be able to share with others the feeling of being immersed in Miles Davis's rich harmonies.

Q3: What would you recommend to people who are just starting to listen to jazz?

『The Melody at Night, with You』Keith Jarrett

This is a work released by Keith Jarrett after his recovery from a serious illness. I believe that making difficult music look easy is a sign of professional skill. This album is also easy to listen to for some reason, so I recommend it for beginners. "I Got It Bad and That Ain't Good" has a gentle yet powerful swell, and listening to it on a rainy day will definitely move you.

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