Manami Morita

Manami Morita: When Skies Are Grey

by Ian Patterson
January 7, 2013

Japanese pianist Manami Morita has made a name for herself in Boston since arriving in 2006 to study at Berklee College of Music. Whether solo, in guitarist Colin Cannon's quartet or leading her own trio, Morita's impressive technique harnesses energy and finesse in equal measure, qualities to the fore on her fourth release as leader. Morita doesn't sacrifice melody for virtuosity either, though there are plenty of fireworks in these vibrant arrangements. Morita, moreover, seems to embrace greater use of ...

Manami Morita: Colors

by Ian Patterson
February 5, 2010

The cover of Color, pianist Manami Morita's debut recording as leader, is a mosaic of child-like drawings, all round shapes and primary colors. It's somehow a reflection of her music which is unselfconsciously joyous and optimistic. There are few shades and little introspection in her playing, only boldness and, like the colors of nature, harmony.

The trio interplay is tight; bassist Zak Croxall and drummer Tom Hartman have played with Morita for some time and the three have already recorded ...