A dream-come-true collaboration of two of the leading figures in contemporary music today.
The ‘Amity‘ Duet, inspired through Friendship, Peace, Harmony and Mutual understanding… Makoto Ozone and Avishai Cohen, are both unique creators of jazz in the world today with substantial paths and careers forged, who are also both closely intertwined with belated jazz legend Chick Corea.
They will join forces presenting a series of intimate acoustic performances throughout the globe during 2023 – 2024.
‘’I’m very excited about teaming up with Makoto Ozone! Makoto has a rare kind of command of piano mastering both classical and jazz abilities which to me is the perfect combination.’’
Avishai Cohen – November 2022.
”Ever since I heard Avishai for the first time, making music with him someday has been my dream. Now I am finally getting to play with him. I can’t describe how excited I am to find out, what it feels like to be in the world of music written by true genius. This is my chance to gain and grow again.
Makoto Ozone November 2022
I simply can’t wait!”
Avishai Cohen – Bass – Israel
Over the last twenty-five years Internationally acclaimed bassist, singer, and composer Avishai Cohen, has grown to be one of the heavyweights of contemporary jazz, with a catalogue to rival those of even the most legendary in the field of jazz… and beyond.
His captivating live performances, unique sound and musical statement are now extensively known throughout every corner of the world, attracting large live audiences, listeners and passionate fans. Cohen’s music has shaped and influenced many.
‘Today is known as a unique composer and music Influencer with no boundaries’.
Avishai in recent years has been busy on the road with his infamous trio formation, and classical project ‘’Two Roses’’, An Evening with Avishai Cohen and creating new projects and recordings throughout this time, since his first release in 1998 – Adama ( Concord). This year is no different, with a new recording, and new projects on tour. Including this unique and special collaboration of minds and spirits with Makoto.
“…his playing remains as jaw dropping as ever.”
Downbeat USA
“As a live performer, Cohen is hard to beat.”
London Jazz, UK
Makoto Ozone – Piano – Japan
Makoto Ozone graduated from Berklee College of Music in 1983. The same year, he gave a solo recital at Carnegie Hall in New York City, becoming the first Japanese musician to be exclusively signed to CBS, with the worldwide release of his debut album OZONE.
His stellar career has brought him a Grammy nomination in 2003, and Makoto has constantly been at the forefront of the international jazz scene, recording and touring with such greats as Gary Burton, Chick Corea, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Paquito D’Rivera, Arturo Sandoval, Elis Marsalis, Branford Marsalis, Jeff “Tain” Watts, and many others. In 2004, he formed the “No Name Horses” big band in Japan. The band has been performing successfully in Japan and all over the globe ever since.
In recent years, Makoto has also been focusing on works from the classical music repertoire, playing concertos by Bernstein, Mozart, Rachmaninov, and Prokofiev, with major orchestras both in Japan and abroad. Such performances have been highly acclaimed by the press;
North Germany Hannover “the audience was fascinated and struck with awe at Ozone’s unparalleled performance.”
