Natsuki Tamura – trumpet
Satoko Fujii – piano
Takashi Itani – percussion
Fujii formed This is It! in 2017 after searching for just the right trio combination, and it’s one of her most free-spirited ensembles yet. They fully inhabit Fujii’s pieces, taking different approaches to each one. The trust and confidence among them create deeply layered performances that blend melody, sound, and rhythm in endlessly inventive ways, creating deep and satisfying music.
4.5-stars: “this is music that deserves to be heard with full attention – with the understanding that no matter what we’re hearing, ‘this is it!’” – Eric McDowell, The Free Jazz Collective
4.5-stars: “…a rambunctious stew of explosive group dynamics and interludes of gorgeous piano ruminations beside prickly percussive keyboard moments….This project…has lifted her artistry to a new level…. Always fresh, always adventurous.” – Dan McClenaghan, All About Jazz
“…can’t get much closer to improvisational music perfection…..As with any Fujii project but especially the smaller combo ones, telepathy and simpatico are the two main ingredients that elevate her music well beyond the notes. – Victor Aaron, Something Else!
4-stars: “The music rattles the bones as often as it soothes the soul and no composer is more masterful at balancing and grounding those extremes.” – Karl Ackermann, All About Jazz
“This is harsh music, but it’s also very beautiful, on its own terms.” – Phil Freeman, Stereogum
The band has released two CDs: 1538 (2018) and Mosaic (2021)