Close To You

Introduction

Released in December 2011 by Daiki Mujika, "Poinciana" is a long-running hit. This long-awaited new album from Grace Maya, the popular and talented vocalist. Continuing from her previous album, Grace Maya's stable vocals are complemented by a backing lineup of some of Japan's most talented jazz musicians. This album features a selection of standards, including the title track "Close To You." Track 11, "The Rose," showcases her vocal talent and expressiveness, concluding with a masterful arrangement. [MEMBERS] Grace Maya - Vocals, Ryo Ogihara - Guitar, Jun Miyagawa - Piano, Rhodes, Daiki Yasukawa - Bass, Ryo Kawamura - Drums Recorded on December 11th & 12th, 2012, at Yamanakako Music Inn Studio Photo by Hozumi Nakahira

Media Reviews and More

Singer and pianist Grace Maya's sixth album. Leaving the piano and Rhodes entirely to Miyagawa Jun, Grace fully demonstrates her charm as a jazz singer, backed by talented musicians Ryo Ogiwara (guitar), Daiki Yasukawa (bass), and Ryo Kawamura (drums). Grace's pronunciation, reminiscent of a native speaker, further enhances her inherent swing, and she effortlessly handles the wordy, up-tempo "Them There Eyes." She also displays her individuality with the sophisticated scat singing that only a pianist can possess, on "Dat Dere" and "One Note Samba." Meanwhile, she captivates with her emotional expression, utilizing her expansive midrange in ballads like "Close To You" and "The Nearness Of You." Miyagawa also enjoys soulful playing on the organ on "You Don't Know What Love Is." A masterpiece. --From a review on Jazz Page