A masterclass in performance: Japanese Jazz at the Barbican
The EFG London Jazz Festival ended its 2025 edition on a high.
Photo: Mark Allen / Barbican
I had the absolute pleasure of attending the Japanese Jazz performance at the Barbican, closing out the EFG London Jazz Festival 2025. The evening was a masterclass in the bold and beautiful sounds of Japanese jazz, featuring the iconic Akiko Yano, YELLOW MAGIC ORCHESTRA vocalist, and a talented quintet of master musicians.
Akiko Yano took to the stage, her fingers dancing across the piano keys with elegance and whimsy. Her solo set was intimate, playful, and utterly captivating, showcasing her unique blend of jazz, pop, and traditional Japanese influences. From her groundbreaking debut, Japanese Girl, to her collaborations with legends like YELLOW MAGIC ORCHESTRA and Pat Metheny, Yano’s music is a testament to her warmth, authenticity, and love of music.
The second half of the evening featured a quintet of celebrated musicians, including tenor sax legend Kosuke Mine, expressive pianist Fumio Itabashi, dynamic drummer Takeo Moriyama, genre-hopping bassist Takashi Sugawa, and the vibrant alto sax of Miyuki Moriya. Together, they created a powerful and deeply grooving sound, showcasing the diversity and richness of Japanese jazz.
Considering their age, Fumio Itabashi and Takeo Moriyama lived up to their reputation. Consistently jumping out of their seats with excitement and not wanting to leave the stage, it almost felt like you were interrupting something special between them and their instruments.
The Barbican Hall was electric, with the audience clearly enthralled by the performances. The chemistry between the musicians was palpable, and the energy was infectious. It was a truly unforgettable night, and a fitting conclusion to an incredible festival. If you missed it, don’t worry… the magic of Japanese jazz is sure to inspire and uplift you. And if you were lucky enough to be there, like me, you’ll be replaying the highlights in your mind for weeks to come.