Category: Discography

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“Steve’s playing is thoughtful, soulful and inspired. Great listening for Christmas time or any other time of the year.”

(Tommy James, piano and musical director, Duke Ellington Orchestra)

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“To my good friends in Minaswing: A voice singing a beautiful song,
wrapped in many-colored sound, and within me a new treasure is formed.
Bringing this feeling to us all…this magnificent feeling…” A big kiss,

Lisa Ono

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Long Happiness Records (2005)

“Built on the foundation of the great variety of Brazilian music, yet its freedom, imagination and positive energy can’t be contained in a box. It will make you feel happy, and also saudade(longing). ”

Satoru Shionoya, pianist

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Grace Notes Records (2008)

“All the beauty the flute has to offer…multiplied by four! Great playing, beautiful sound, perfect intonation and swinging arrangements add up to a flute-lover’s must-have CD.”

Jamie Baum, flutist and composer

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IAM Records (2002)

“Thoughtfully made, with a simple and beautiful imagination. In other words, a prayer. May this CD reach many people’s hearts.” –Gonzalez Suzuki, producer, Soul Bossa Trio
“Overflowing with love for New York…made by one who knows the true power of music.”
–Daisaku Kume, composer, pianist and recording artist

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AMJ Records (1999)

“The album mesmerizes…a perfect example of Brazilian instrumental music spiced up with haunting vocals.”

Egidio Leitao, “Luna Kafe” website

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“Tremendous musicians with a feel-good groove. You feel the deep love for Latin jazz throughout.” (Carlos Kanno, percussionist/producer)

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“Luxurious and stylish Latin jazz by five top American and Japanese musicians, supported by great technique. Sometimes intensely, sometimes gently, their music grabs us. An album to spice up your life!” Orquesta de la Luz, NORA

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“The exceptional bonds between the members of this rock-solid quintet give their new album a refreshingly open-minded, unconventional Latin jazz essence, guiding the listener into a world of pleasure.” (Keiichi Konishi/Jazz Tokyo)