I have been busy putting up the newly arrived CDs and SACDs. I’m not done yet, but I’d like to to draw your attention to the latest four additions to our catalog at Eastwind Import: One new recording by my favorite Japanese pianist and three Japanese reissues of classic jazz albums from the 1950s. These older recordings are not readily available in the CD format elsewhere.

Yoshiko Kishino / Praha [Hybrid SACD]
My favorite pianist/composer/arranger went to Praha (Prague), the Czech Republic, in 2004 and recorded a beautiful album with a piano trio (with George Mraz on bass) plus strings. The warm analog recording is transferred successfully to this gorgeous-sounding hybrid SACD.

Beverly Kenney / Come Swing with Me
My quest to complete the collection of her albums continues. Her second album for Royal Roost is a lively, swinging affair with the Ralph Burns Orchestra. (Rec. 1956)

Helen Merrill / The Nearness of You
Merrill’s last album for the EmArcy label features Bill Evans on five tunes. This is a wonderful all-standards album by a sophisticated singer. (Rec. 1957-58)

Doug Watkins / Watkins at Large
The supremely talented bassist Doug Watkins’ first leader album was issued by the obscure Transition label. A fiery, brilliant session with Hank Mobley, Donald Byrd, Kenny Burrell, Duke Jordan and Art Taylor who were all young, up-and-coming artists at the time.

As always, you can click the links above for details and listen to sample audio files.

Happy listening to you all!

Hajime