Released on AUM Fidelity in 2008, Redwoods showcases pianist Eri Yamamoto’s deeply melodic and emotionally resonant compositions. Joined by longtime collaborators David Ambrosio (bass) and Ikuo Takeuchi (drums), the trio explores a rich palette of textures and moods across eight original tracks.
Inspired by the majestic redwood trees of Muir Woods, the title track evokes quiet awe and spaciousness. Pieces like “Wonder Land” and “Story Teller” highlight Yamamoto’s gift for painting vivid musical scenes with minimalism and grace. Critics have praised the album for its subtle dynamic variation and intuitive interplay, drawing comparisons to the classic Bill Evans trio.
🌲 Track highlights:
- “This Is An Apple” – playful and exploratory
- “Redwoods” – meditative and expansive
- “Bottled Water Princess” – animated and rhythmically vibrant
- “Dear Friends” – a gentle closing tribute
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On Redwoods, pianist Eri Yamamoto and her long-standing trio craft a quiet but compelling statement of musical intimacy. Released in 2008 on AUM Fidelity, the album feels deeply personal—meditative yet rhythmically alive, filled with understated brilliance rather than showy virtuosity.
A Sound Like Nature
The title track, “Redwoods”, is a fitting metaphor for the album’s character: rooted, expansive, and full of quiet strength. Yamamoto’s playing doesn’t demand your attention—it earns it. Her melodies are simple on the surface but reveal emotional complexity the more you listen. Each note feels placed with care, like stones in a garden.
Compositional Strength
Yamamoto’s writing is deceptively sophisticated. Tracks like “This Is an Apple” experiment with odd meters and shifting rhythmic feels (3/4, 6/8, 7/8), yet still remain lyrical and grounded. “Magnolia” and “Dear Friends” are introspective waltzes with a classical grace. And “Bumpy Trail” offers angular phrasing and tension, showing the trio’s ability to engage in subtle yet adventurous improvisation.
The Trio Dynamic
David Ambrosio (bass) and Ikuo Takeuchi (drums) are not accompanists—they are full collaborators.
The trio breathes as one: responsive, spacious, and never rushed.
They excel in listening as much as playing, which gives the album its calm, flowing energy.
Critical Reception
The album was praised by outlets like AllMusic, All About Jazz, and PopMatters for its restraint, lyricism, and emotional depth. Critics frequently compare her approach to Paul Bley or Keith Jarrett—but Yamamoto is very much her own voice, with a lighter, more joyful touch.