[Machine Translation] That sound is imbued with resolve and a sense of farewell. Masaki Kikuchi, just before his departure for the United States, plays those famous pieces with single-minded devotion. Masaki Kikuchi was a pianist who achieved international acclaim with his rare individuality and keen sense of the times. In 1973, he moved his base of operations to New York, but this album is a live recording from a studio concert he held for fans just before that move. Although he was experimenting with innovative sounds during this period by incorporating electronic instruments and unconventional ensemble configurations, on this album he performs with a traditional lineup of two wind instruments and a piano trio. The album consists of five original compositions by Kikuchi. His resolve gives rise to passion, and his farewell evokes a distinctly Japanese sentiment. Masterpieces such as Shuu," Ginkai," and Green Dance" surge forth like waves from beyond the taut atmosphere. This masterpiece can rightly be called one of Kikuchi s crowning achievements. text by Yusuke Ogawa ( UNIVERSOUNDS / DEEP JAZZ REALITY )