宮沢昭

Japanese jazz tenor saxophonist and clarinetist. Born December 6, 1927 in Matsumoto, Nagano; died July 6, 2000.

The name Akira Miyazawa, rarely if ever, appears in jazz reference books, at least not in ones available in North America. Other than some sites selling his CDs, the internet does not offer much about the saxophonist. This is a shame since his recordings tell the story of an accomplished musician whose work has remained intriguing and fresh after almost four decades.

Akira Miyazawa/ Four Units reveals a unique and talented musician whose work deserves better and more widespread recognition. Miyazawa sounds like Sonny Rollins on tenor but with slightly less bite in his tone. He only plays a little flute which, however, is not that memorable. Pianist Masahiko Satoh demonstrates strong classical sensibilities. Drummer Masahiko Togashi - who sounds a bit like Elvin Jones - and bassist Yasuo Arakawa have a unique rapport with each other when playing behind Miyazawa and Satoh in addition to being accomplished soloists in their own right.