What makes Susto by Masabumi Kikuchi notable?

Susto is notable for its innovative approach to jazz, blending traditional elements with surreal sound textures, which has influenced a generation of musicians exploring the boundaries of the genre. The album received critical acclaim, with particular praise from jazz critics for its daring improvisation and complex structure. Released in 1981, Susto marks Masabumi Kikuchi's transition into more experimental territory following his earlier work as a conventional jazz pianist. This album came after his successful collaborations with renowned artists and established him as an influential figure in the avant-garde jazz scene of the early 1980s.

How many songs are on Susto?

Susto has 4 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Susto

Masabumi Kikuchi · 1981

47 min · 4 tracks · jazz

A mesmerizing blend of avant-garde jazz and ethereal soundscapes unfolds over expansive compositions that invite deep listening.

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Top tracks — play these first

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CIRCLE/LINE — This track exemplifies Kikuchi's unique fusion of free jazz and electronic elements, creating a hypnotic atmosphere that draws listeners into its intricate layering.
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CITY SNOW — With its delicate piano lines interwoven with ambient textures, this piece captures the essence of urban solitude and introspection, showcasing Kikuchi's lyrical style.
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GUMBO — This track stands out for its rhythmic complexity and vibrant interplay between instruments, illustrating Kikuchi's mastery in crafting dynamic musical conversations.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

71 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

Susto showcases innovative compositions and unique sound textures, marking a significant evolution in Kikuchi's work.

What we noticed

Each track features extended improvisational sections that allow for exploration of themes rather than strict adherence to traditional song structures.
The first track opens with a slow build-up, gradually layering sounds before reaching a more dynamic interplay between instruments.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 CIRCLE/LINE 14:57
2 CITY SNOW 7:41
3 GUMBO 10:14
4 NEW NATIVE 14:57

What to play next

Listen next

One-Way Traveller

1982

Go back to

But Not For Me

1978

Full Masabumi Kikuchi discography Where to start with Masabumi Kikuchi Artists like Masabumi Kikuchi

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata