Born in 1948 on the Japanese island of Niigata, Tsuyoshi Yamamoto developed a passion for the piano during his formative years in elementary school. His introduction to the world of jazz occurred when he immersed himself in the soundtrack to the 1959 French film Les Liaisons Dangereuses by Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers.

 

 

 

In 1967, Yamamoto embarked on his professional journey by touring with renowned Japanese actor and musician Mickey Curtis. Subsequent collaborations with illustrious artists such as Dizzy Gillespie, Elvin Jones and Carmen McRae helped further elevate his name to international acclaim.

Now, at the age of 75, Yamamoto stands as a revered elder statesman of Japanese jazz, boasting a remarkable career spanning over six decades. As a bandleader, he has produced over 20 albums and contributed to numerous other acclaimed sessions.

 

 

His latest recording, A Shade of Blue, marks his debut for evosound and serves as a personal love letter to the piano trio format. For this project, Yamamoto assembled a highly experienced band, including 79-year-old drummer Toshio Osumi, and the youngest of the trio, 61-year-old bassist Hiroshi Kagawa.