Ever been listening to something that sounds like jazz only to have it suddenly not sound like jazz? Today we investigate this phenomenon for three pianists who have jazz backgrounds, but overlap into rock music a little bit (yes that includes you Ms. Kuwabara).

Laboratory- Ai Kuwabara Trio Project

The Trio Project is my favorite jazz trio (and I really like jazz trios). Their first album, “From Here to There” is simply astonishing, unlike any other sound I have heard. This song comes off their second album; a little bit after the 1 minute mark, the bass and drums cut out and the piano goes for a little tonal adventure before returning to the land of diminished chords. Also watch out for the bass and drum solo towards the end.

Habana- Jizue

Disclaimer- Jizue was my favorite band for a couple of years so I am biased towards there music.

Jizue is the least jazzy of these three artists. Primarily known for their piano and guitar counterpoint with long buildups in the bridge sections, Jizue has an extremely unique style for the rock/jazz that they play. In this song, they continue the tradition of Japanese jazz musicians playing Latin music which originated with Cuban emigres in the 50s. A little after 4 minutes, the piano has a classical solo that is so simple and out of place its almost cheesy. Afterwards you think the song is over, but then the chorus cuts back in quite nicely.

Wanderer- Hiromi Trio

This “Classical Interlude” is a little bit different than the other two. Starting around 52 seconds, it is not a phrase but a single figure (with some beautiful arpeggiation in the left hand). It is much more a part of the overall song than the other two, sounding less out of place, though it is hard for anything to sound out of place is Hiomi’s compositions. I briefly considered including her Beethoven here instead of this song; what do you guys think? Alternatively is there another song that would fit with the above two better?