These past few springs, as part of his prolific output of sparkling piano-driven singles, Rei Narita’s mission to be “in pursuit of beauty” has included magnificently melodic songs celebrating the arrival of the Sakura, Japan’s national flower. These cherry blossoms symbolize renewal, optimism and the fleeting nature of life. In 2023, the Asian Smooth Jazz pioneer graced us with the ballad “Let’s meet up under the sakura,” and last year, he released the romantic solo piano piece “One kiss under the sakura.” Reflecting yet another mood that captures the glorious appearance of the blossoms, the multi-faceted keyboardist/composer is friskier and more festive this year, with his jaunty, jazzy key runs and improvisations popping with great energy as they dance above a lively EDM groove.
