The Vibe

Trombonist Nanami Haruta, from the northern parts of Japan (Sapporo), presented her debut recording on Origin Records last year. Her tone, technique and musicality sound quite advanced beyond her age. This may have to do some with her mentor, Prof. Michael Dease, of Michigan State University - one of today's most recognized, and recognizable, trombone masters. In fact, Maestro Dease also performs on a couple of tracks, notably on baritone saxophone, and serves as a co-producer! Co-produced by noted Michigan based composer Gregg Hill, there are other Michigan State University connections on this side, including Director of Jazz Studies Rodney Whitaker and Prof. Xavier Davis. Ulysses Owens Jr. holds down the drums chair. Most impressively Ms. Haruta includes 3 originals, with others by Dease, Whitaker and Hill. Check out the swingin' version of Curtis Fuller's "Algonquin"!