Chihiro Yamanaka - Guilty Pleasure (2016) [Hi-Res]

Speaking of melodies of jazz, as is the commonly recognized equation, melodies of original works very often tend to be all instrumental-focused. Yet, some of you may expect more vocal-friendly, naturally-go-well-with-lyrics melodies to be created sometimes. Then this, the latest from a prominent jazz artist/piano virtuoso Chihiro Yamanaka, is just right for you. Recorded in NY with familiar members from her own regular trio, the 11-track album carries 8 original tunes of her own out of which some depict a refreshing afternoon sunshine, some hinting almost heartbreaking melancholy, or some being wrapped in an electro-mood. The other cover numbers of her choice include a famous jazz standard with a surreal-arrangement and Japanese rock band Godiego's tune (nice surprise!), fully and notably representing the Yamanaka-ism herein.

Chihiro Yamanaka, piano, Fender Rhodes, organ Hammond B-3
Yoshi Waki, bass
John Davis, drums