An engaging pianist whose crisp, forceful attacks take off from Bud Powell territory but go well beyond mere imitation, Akiyoshi is also a skilled composer-arranger and ranks as one of the more acclaimed figures in the Bop-based Modern Big Band field. Her work in the latter category blends swinging, Gil Evans-esque arrangements with occasional Eastern influences, spotlighting top-notch soloists such as tenor saxophonist/flautist Lew Tabackin.
