2nd Album

Kosuke Mine's 2nd Album stands as a landmark recording in Japanese jazz history. Captured in Tokyo during late 1970 and originally released on the prestigious Three Blind Mice label, this reissue introduces a new generation to Mine's virtuosic command of alto and soprano saxophones. Assembled alongside an exceptional quintet—trombonist Takashi Imai, guitarist Yoshiaki Masuo, bassist Yoshio "Chin" Suzuki, and drummer Hiroshi Murakami—Mine crafted a post-bop sound rooted in modal exploration and spiritual intensity reminiscent of Coltrane's vision, yet unmistakably Japanese in character. The album thrives on the dynamic interplay between musicians, with fiery exchanges and lyrical improvisations that reveal why this work remains essential listening for jazz collectors and enthusiasts alike.