Koichi Yabori

Fragile is a Japanese jazz-fusion band with an extensive career within their country. The Sun and the Melodies is their tenth album; conducted by the masterful guitar of Koichi Yabori, at times it gives the sensation of being listening to many more musicians than a trio. Highly recommended.

Yet another stellar entry in the Fragile catalog. These records are all so good, it's really impressive. I see the fusion discs rated highly on here that came out at the same time, and they're no competition at all for what these guys bring. Origin has to be my favorite here, although L.C.M. is right there. These early discs have guitarist Koichi Yabori's judicious use of guitar synth to flesh out their trio sound as needed, and it works. A big plus for them, is all 3 guys contribute to the writing. Makes for a more varied sound, and lessens the chance they'll write themselves dry. Do get one of these records, if you have any affection for fusion at all.

Fragile are a long running fusion band from Japan, and Phantom is my first encounter with the group, a mere decade after its initial release. Fragile are from the modern school of Japanese fusion, where the technical ability is astounding, and the compositions are strictly a foundation to support that. Rather than the other way around, which would be my preference. It's a tough genre to break new ground, as many before them have tread similar paths with varying results. So it was with much surprise that the opening two tracks caught my attention. Indeed this is inventive fusion, and as expected, the playing is exemplary, in particular the guitarist. However, as the disc continues on, ear fatigue begins to set in.

Their 8th album,"Poison Quells Poison" was recorded on VME Label,will be released 25th February.It must be the latest and the best stuff of all the Fragile albums, must chill a lot of people hear the sound.