Balance Point

Pianist Art Hirahara undergoes a transformative journey of self-exploration to discover the “Balance Point” on his fifth release for Posi-Tone. This engaging new record also fea- tures several standout performances and meaningful con- tributions from his trusted collaborators tenor saxophonist Melissa Aldana, bassist Joe Martin, and drummer Rudy Royston. Hirahara utilizes his visionary talents as a band- leader and virtuoso musician to uncover the hidden possi- bilities latent in the inner nature of the songs to help make bold collaborative statements while ultimately re- maining true to himself. All of the original compositions and arrangements of traditional melodies always contain lyrical elements that are clearly suggestive of a modern jazz sen- sibility while holding a keen focus on remaining straight forward with some hard swinging highlights. With insightful leadership, an amazing combination of talent and musi- cianship, along with an evocative program of music, Hira- hara’s latest release, “Balance Point,” is sure to bring bright moments of intense delight to serious listeners and jazz fans everywhere.