In 2005, Okazaki competed in the prestigious Thelonious Monk Guitar Competition where he placed as a finalist. With his winnings, he went on to record the first of his series of three releases, Mirror, that were to showcase his own theories on rhythm, harmony and melody. The second recording Generations was composed after receiving a “New Works” grant from Chamber Music American. Finally, Figurations was completed during an extended composer’s residency at the illustrious Jazz Gallery in New York City.
Along with his own projects, Okazaki has remained an invaluable collaborator and sideman, performing with musicians as diverse as Dan Weiss, Jen Shyu and Steve Coleman.
The music on Figurations represents the culmination of 10 years of study, composing and performing. Okazaki has put together a tremendous document that displays his own process and development, rooted in the science of sound, performed in the improvisational tradition, and expressed in the spirit of camaraderie.
Along with his own projects, Okazaki has remained an invaluable collaborator and sideman, performing with musicians as diverse as Dan Weiss, Jen Shyu and Steve Coleman.
The music on Figurations represents the culmination of 10 years of study, composing and performing. Okazaki has put together a tremendous document that displays his own process and development, rooted in the science of sound, performed in the improvisational tradition, and expressed in the spirit of camaraderie.
credits
Miles Okazaki - guitar
Miguel Zenón - alto saxophone
Thomas Morgan - acoustic bass
Dan Weiss - drums
Miguel Zenón - alto saxophone
Thomas Morgan - acoustic bass
Dan Weiss - drums
