Album Review: Force by Trix – A Fusion Jazz Gem from Japan
If you’re into jazz but love when it gets a little wild, Force by Trix is one of those albums that sneaks up on you. Released in 2007 under the Electric Bird label in Japan, this fusion jazz record feels like a late-night drive through neon-lit streets—chaotic yet smooth, unpredictable yet comforting. It’s not perfect, but it’s got personality for days.
Let’s talk tracks. The album kicks off with “Adios,” and man, does it set the tone. It’s got this breezy, almost Latin vibe to it, but then BAM—the guitar solo just rips through like an unexpected storm. You know those moments when you’re zoning out, and suddenly something grabs your attention? That’s “Adios” for me. It’s the kind of track that makes you go, “Wait… what year did you say this was made?” Feels way ahead of its time.
Then there’s “Puma”—and yeah, I’m pretty sure they named it after the animal because it’s sleek and kinda dangerous. What stands out here is how tight the rhythm section is. Like, these guys are locked in. The drums don’t just follow the beat—they play around with it, teasing you, keeping things interesting. And honestly, isn’t that what jazz fusion is all about? Breaking rules while making it sound effortless?
Of course, we can’t skip over トラック like “夕暮れ” (that’s “Twilight” if your Japanese is rusty). There’s something hauntingly beautiful about it, like watching the sun dip below the horizon. It’s slow, moody, and gives you space to breathe between all the high-energy numbers. Same goes for “パチンカーZ,” which sounds exactly like what you’d imagine—a chaotic pinball machine come to life. Fun fact: pachinko is huge in Japan, so maybe this track is a nod to that culture? Either way, it slaps.
One thing I dig about Force is how unapologetically Japanese it feels. No, it’s not traditional music or anything, but there’s this vibe throughout the album that screams Tokyo nightlife—busy, electric, full of contrasts. Plus, props to Trix for blending genres without losing their identity. These cats clearly know what they’re doing.
So, would I recommend Force? Absolutely. It’s not gonna be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you prefer straight-up bebop or chill lo-fi beats. But if you’re down for some genre-bending madness with killer musicianship, give it a spin.
Oh, and here’s a random thought to leave you with: If Force were a food, it’d probably be ramen. Sounds weird at first, but once you dive in, you realize every element has its place. Just don’t forget to add extra spice.
