The young generation pioneering the Japanese jazz scene

Photo: Obi - @pixel7propix / Unsplash.

The current jazz scene in Japan is rapidly thriving. Jazz, as a genre, has historically incorporated various influences and evolved. Many musicians who perform jazz bring their own firsthand experiences, which greatly contribute to the genre. Since around 2010, artists like Robert Glasper have established a form of jazz that also resonates with hip-hop listeners.

This trend has become more prominent in Japan as well, with young jazz musicians at the forefront who believe that jazz should be expressed through their own experiences. Examples include drummer Shun Ishiwaka and trumpeter-pianist Mao Sone, both born in the 1990s.

Japan is considered one of the countries where jazz flows most prominently. Jazz can be heard in chain cafes, izakayas, and even in train stations, making it easily accessible. However, what is commonly heard is jazz that has been popularized as background music rather than live jazz.

Taku performing.

Musicians in Japan are working hard to make jazz more accessible and engaging for people. They want to move away from jazz being just background music and instead showcase its true essence and appeal. These musicians have been exploring different ways to reach listeners, including organizing live performances in various venues and now embracing the new approach of live streaming.

They are passionate about sharing their music and stories, and you can witness their unique styles and groundbreaking performances, such as the stage of vocalists like TAKU, who dedicated time to refine their skills in New York, and Mao Sone, who impressively plays two instruments. So, if you're looking for an exciting jazz experience, make sure to check out their performances at Oh!Jazz.