We venture a look into the future. Guitarist Kay-Ta, who comes from Osaka (Japan) and lives in Los Angeles, sent me his recently completed album Harmless, which will be released in 2025. Parts of the album have been published online by this time.

He has already released two projects, Arrival which won the 2016 15th annual Independent Music Award in The Best Jazz Instrumental Album category and Distance, which was launched this year. Kay-Ta has written and produced anew the complete album. All instruments are played by him with a little bit of punch-ins.

The album opens with the title song. Kay-Ta called this song Harmless, which means the composition is pleasant, non-dissonant, or not causing tension or conflict. Tailored to the taste of the smooth jazz community, it is sure to find its fans with its gentle melody.

The high-tempo Irony, on the other hand, is designed for virtuosity, with Kay-Ta alternating between fast and slow phases in order to hear the intensity.

Ronny's Groove is dedicated to the late guitarist Ronny Jordan. Ronny Jordan is mostly known for his contributions to the acid jazz movement of the 1990s and is recognized for blending jazz, hip-hop, and R&B elements in his music. Jordan's album The Antidote is considered one of his most popular works. Kay-Ta's song is influenced by Ronny's style.

High Up thrives on the rapid acceleration of the notes, which provide musical culminations. Walking, on the other hand, is more deliberate, emphasizing the individual steps as if you had to pay attention to the path.

Constellations are after a common explanation a group of stars that form a picture. Kay-Ta understands this to mean a formation of notes that result in an overall musical image. Steps To Humility is his own way to express musical practise for a better experience.

Reuse Me combines guitar layers based on a fast paced rhythm interwined with pizzicato strings converying a positive feeling. You also find the experimental song S.A.G, on which Jay-Ta seems to work with filters.

Plumeria is a type of flower that is native to Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. This final solo acoustic guitar piece is evoking a sense of calm and tranquility.

Kay-Ta's upcoming album Harmless is a testament to the guitarist's incredible skill and creativity. The album is not only an enjoyable listen but also a platform for Kay-Ta to showcase his musical prowess. This future album is definitely worth checking out for anyone who appreciates and admires guitar artistry in music.

 

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Album Information

Title: Harmless
Artist: Kay-Ta
Year: 2025
Length: 0:41:13
Genre: General Jazz
Label: LCR Music


Tracks:

1) "Harmless" (4:12)
2) "Irony" (4:26)
3) "Ronny's Groove" (4:03)
4) "High Up" (4:06)
5) "Walking" (4:24)
6) "Constellations" (3:50)
7) "Steps To Humility" (3:57)
8) "Reuse me" (4:00)
9) "S.A.G" (4:12)
10) "Plumeria" (2:42)