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Tetsuo Sakurai

Tetsuo Sakurai (born November 13, 1957) is a jazz fusion , , and , renowned for his innovative slap bass techniques and contributions to the genre's development in . Best known as a founding member of the influential jazz fusion band from 1976 to 1989, Sakurai helped shape the band's signature sound through 19 albums, blending , and jazz elements. Sakurai began playing bass at age 13 in , initially influenced by bands like and Led Zeppelin before shifting to during high school, drawing inspiration from artists such as The Crusaders, , , and . After leaving in 1989, he co-founded the duo Jimsaku with drummer , releasing 11 albums until 1998 and expanding his reputation through intricate rhythmic interplay. His solo career, active since 1986, includes 10 albums such as Dewdrops (1986), Gentle Hearts (2001, featuring and ), and Talking Bass (2012, with ), totaling over 46 CDs across band and solo projects. Throughout his career, Sakurai has collaborated with international luminaries including the , Bob James, , , , and , while also performing at prestigious events like the and North Sea Jazz Festival. A versatile educator, he has released four instructional DVDs and served as a professor at the Warwick Bass Camp from 2014 to 2016, emphasizing technical precision and musical expression. In recent years, Sakurai has led projects like his tribute band and the Katsushika Trio with former members, including the release of the album in October 2025, continuing to tour globally and innovate within .

Early life and education

Childhood and musical beginnings

Tetsuo Sakurai was born on November 13, 1957, in , , where he grew up in an urban environment that exposed him to a vibrant cultural scene during his formative years. As a child, Sakurai developed an early interest in music, initially experimenting with drums and guitar before settling on the at the age of 13. Sakurai's initial foray into the was self-directed, as he learned the basics by meticulously copying songs from his favorite recordings, without formal instruction at that stage. His early musical explorations were heavily shaped by hard rock bands such as and Led Zeppelin, which captivated him during his pre-teen and early teen years. This period laid the groundwork for his dedication to the instrument, fostering a disciplined approach through repetitive practice and imitation. By his mid-teens, around age 16 or 17 while in high school, Sakurai's listening habits shifted toward and fusion, drawing inspiration from artists like those in The Crusaders, , , and —whose bassist notably influenced his appreciation for the genre's melodic and harmonic possibilities, though he engaged with these works more for enjoyment than technical dissection. School activities and non-musical pursuits during this time further honed his focus and perseverance, contributing to the self-reliant mindset that defined his early musical development.

Formal training and initial influences

Sakurai began playing the at the age of 13 while growing up in , marking the start of his self-directed musical journey. He attended Keio Gijuku Shiki High School before enrolling at in 1975, where his formal education focused on commercial science rather than music, and graduated with a in 1980—a period during which he balanced academic pursuits with intensive bass practice. Subsequent influences drew heavily from the movement, particularly the innovative techniques of American bassist , whose mastery of the and harmonic complexity profoundly shaped Sakurai's early development. During the mid-1970s in , Sakurai gained foundational experience through local amateur band activities and workshops, where he refined skills such as reading and improvising in fusion ensembles, setting the stage for his professional entry. These early endeavors emphasized techniques, allowing him to transition from hobbyist to band founder by 1976.

Professional career

Formation and tenure with Casiopea

Tetsuo Sakurai co-founded the fusion band in 1976 alongside Issei Noro, Tohru "Rika" Suzuki, and Hidehiko Koike. As the band's , Sakurai provided the foundational rhythmic drive from its inception, drawing on his prior amateur experiences to establish a tight ensemble sound rooted in fusion influences. In 1977, replaced Koike, solidifying the lineup, and by 1980, succeeded Suzuki, marking the classic quartet configuration that defined Casiopea's peak era. Casiopea achieved key milestones during Sakurai's tenure, beginning with their self-titled debut album released on May 25, 1979, by , which showcased intricate compositions and propelled the band to prominence in Japan's scene. The group expanded internationally in the 1980s, embarking on tours across starting in 1984 and culminating in the 1988 World Tour that included performances in , , , and the , as documented in their live release Casiopea World Live '88. Over the decade, Casiopea's sound evolved from pure toward incorporating pop and elements, reflecting broader market trends and broadening their appeal beyond niche audiences. Sakurai's contributions were central to Casiopea's output of 19 albums between and 1989, where his innovative bass lines anchored the band's energetic grooves and complex harmonies. Notable examples include his prominent slap bass introduction to "Asayake" from the 1985 album Photographs, a track that highlighted his technical prowess and became a live staple, exemplifying the band's fusion-pop hybrid. His playing emphasized melodic interplay with Noro's guitar and Mukaiya's keyboards, contributing to the rhythmic foundation across studio and live recordings that sold widely in and abroad. In 1989, entered a hiatus following the release of Euphony, primarily due to creative differences among the members, prompting Sakurai and to depart and pursue new projects. This period marked the end of Sakurai's 13-year tenure, during which he helped elevate to a cornerstone of Japanese music.

Jimsaku and post-Casiopea transition

Following their departure from in 1989 due to creative differences, Tetsuo Sakurai and , who had shared a rhythmic partnership in the band since Jimbo's joining in 1980, formed the drum-and-bass duo Jimsaku in 1990. The project emphasized the intimate dynamics between Sakurai's intricate bass lines and Jimbo's dynamic drumming, enabling focused experimentation within frameworks. Jimsaku's output included 11 albums between 1990 and 1998, blending composed tracks with live recordings that highlighted their improvisational interplay. Early releases, such as the self-titled debut Jimsaku (1990) and 45℃ (1991), drew heavily on Latin and influences stemming from Sakurai's experiences in during the , while later works like Blaze of Passion (1995) and Mega db (1997) incorporated broader elements with increased emphasis on spontaneous phrasing. The duo reunited in 2020 for their 30th anniversary project, releasing Jimsaku Beyond in 2021 with guest artists. The shift from Casiopea's four-piece ensemble to Jimsaku's minimalist duo format posed adaptation challenges, requiring Sakurai and Jimbo to balance structured compositions with heightened reliance on real-time performance interaction amid the reduced instrumentation. This transition allowed greater creative freedom but demanded precise synchronization to maintain fusion's energetic drive. Jimsaku disbanded in 1998, with Sakurai and Jimbo opting to pursue separate solo endeavors and individual projects.

Other band projects and collaborations

Throughout his career, Tetsuo Sakurai has engaged in several side projects that showcase his versatility as a and , often incorporating elements reminiscent of his tenure. One notable early endeavor was , a vocal band he co-formed with drummer in 1989 amid tensions within ; featuring twin vocalists Kaoru Akimoto and Yurie Kokubu alongside guitarist Nozomi Furukawa, the group released a self-titled blending and fusion influences before disbanding after its single project. In the 2000s, Sakurai explored duo formats, including Pegasus with guitarist Issei Noro, another Casiopea alum; their acoustic collaboration debuted with the live-recorded album Acoustic Duo in 2010, emphasizing intimate interpretations of fusion standards like Chick Corea's "Spain." He also formed the twin-bass unit Tetsujino with Kenji "Jino" Hino, releasing Double Trouble in 2008, which highlighted synchronized bass lines in a fusion context, followed by live performances such as a 2009 show at STB120 in Tokyo. More recently, Sakurai has been active in the Katsushika Trio (K3), formed in 2021 with fellow ex-Casiopea members on drums and on keyboards; the group has toured extensively across , releasing albums like M.R.I_Mirai (2023), Wild Guys in the Universe (2024), and feat. LA Strings (2025), maintaining a high-energy sound that topped iTunes charts. Additionally, his Tetsuo Sakurai Jaco Tribute Band, dedicated to honoring , issued It's A Jaco Time! in 2013 and continues with annual sessions, including a 2023 all-star concert at and a scheduled 2025 performance in . Sakurai's collaborations extend to prominent international and Japanese artists, where he typically serves as bassist and occasional composer, infusing projects with his signature slap and techniques. He worked with guitarist and drummer on the 2001 album Gentle Hearts and its 2004 tour, followed by the 2010 release Vital World, which emphasized rock-infused grooves. guested on Sakurai's 2012 album Talking Bass, contributing to tracks that bridged and . Earlier recordings include sessions with saxophonist and keyboardist , as well as Japanese artists like guitarist Masanori Sera and singer , reflecting his broad appeal in both and pop contexts. These efforts have often culminated in appearances at major festivals and events from the 1990s through the 2020s, such as performances at the International Jazz Festival in 2005 with his solo band, the Jarasum Jazz Festival in , and the Jazz Festival, where Sakurai's bass work anchored high-profile sets. concerts, particularly his ongoing homages, have featured one-off assemblages of luminaries in venues like , extending his Casiopea-rooted style into collaborative celebrations of jazz icons. His Jimsaku experience with served as a foundational bridge to these diverse group endeavors.

Solo career and recent activities

Following the disbandment of Jimsaku in , Tetsuo Sakurai continued his prolific solo , which began in , releasing over ten albums that showcased his versatility in and global influences. His solo discography post-1998 includes A Gate of the (1999), a live marking two decades of his ; Gentle Hearts (2001), featuring collaborations with guitarist Greg Howe and drummer Dennis Chambers; Cartas do Brasil (2003), exploring Brazilian rhythms; the Brasil Connection volumes (2006), delving deeper into Latin fusion; My Dear Musiclife (2009); Vital World (2010); Talking Bass (2012); and Nothin' But the Bass (2015), emphasizing unaccompanied bass performances. Sakurai has also produced instructional materials to mentor aspiring bassists, releasing four DVDs focused on techniques such as slap bass, ensemble playing from Gentle Hearts, solo-duo-trio formats, and varied electric bass expressions. Complementing these, he has issued seven live DVDs capturing his performances, including tours and special events, to demonstrate practical application of his methods. These resources highlight his pedagogical approach, drawing from decades of professional experience to teach phrasing, , and elements. In recent years, Sakurai's activities have centered on innovative trio projects and tributes, evolving toward a global fusion sound influenced by icons like . He co-founded the Trio in 2021 with and keyboardist , releasing their second album Wild Guys in the Universe in 2024 and third, feat. LA Strings, on October 1, 2025, followed by the "Organic Tour" starting October 18, 2025, in and extending through multiple Japanese venues into 2026. Additional 2025 milestones include a performance with Senri Kawaguchi and May Inoue at Blues Alley Japan, celebrating his birthday with fusion standards; a November 13 performance in with Trio, Jimbo, and Mukaiya; and a December 13 tribute to in [Hong Kong](/page/Hong Kong) as part of the Autumn Festival. These engagements, often incorporating virtual and international elements post-2020, underscore his shift to acoustic-organic textures and homages, with brief nods to ensemble collaborations inspiring his solo phrasing.

Musical style and technique

Jazz fusion approach

Tetsuo Sakurai's approach centers on blending Japanese elements with Western traditions, creating a sound that emphasizes groove-oriented lines and melodic phrasing. This fusion of genres is evident in Casiopea's discography, where upbeat rhythms and accessible melodies draw from city pop's pop sensibilities while incorporating jazz's improvisational complexity and harmonic depth. His work often serves as the rhythmic and melodic anchor, providing a propulsive foundation that enhances the ensemble's interplay without overpowering it. In his compositional habits, Sakurai frequently crafts bass-driven tracks that prioritize with the band's overall , leveraging fusion's rhythmic intricacies to build and . As a songwriter within , he contributed original pieces that highlight the 's role in driving the groove, allowing for fluid transitions between high-energy sections and more lyrical passages. This method reflects a deliberate focus on cohesion, where the bass line not only supports but also shapes the harmonic and rhythmic landscape of the composition. Over the decades, Sakurai's style has evolved from the high-energy, technically demanding tracks of Casiopea's early years to more mature and exploratory solo endeavors. The band's 1970s and 1980s output featured polished, upbeat with rapid tempos and virtuosic elements, while his later solo albums incorporate smoother, more reflective qualities, blending with for a broader emotional range. Within Japan's 1980s scene, Sakurai and occupied a central role alongside contemporaries like , helping to popularize the genre domestically through innovative live performances and recordings that combined technical precision with melodic appeal. This era saw fusion bands like achieve widespread acclaim for their ability to merge global jazz influences with local pop sensibilities, solidifying Sakurai's contributions to the movement's enduring legacy.

Bass playing innovations

Tetsuo Sakurai is recognized for pioneering the integration of fretless bass into Japanese jazz fusion, particularly through his adoption of custom six-string fretless models that expanded melodic possibilities in fusion ensembles during and after his time with Casiopea. His use of fretless techniques allowed for smoother glissandi and expressive intonation, distinguishing his contributions in a scene dominated by fretted slap-heavy styles. Sakurai adapted and pop techniques to emphasize melodic solos, transforming the percussive into a vehicle for lyrical phrasing and rapid scalar runs, as demonstrated in live performances like his solo on Casiopea's "Domino Line." This approach elevated the from rhythmic foundation to lead instrument, incorporating and thumb pops for fluid, song-like narratives rather than mere groove enhancement. He frequently employed harmonics to create atmospheric effects, layering bell-like overtones over tracks to add ethereal textures, a honed through his mastery of fingerstyle precision. In live settings, Sakurai showcased a wide , seamlessly shifting from subtle, supportive to prominent lead features that commanded focus. Through instructional DVDs such as "Solo Duo Trio" and "365 Days with Tetsuo Sakurai," Sakurai has influenced generations of bassists by emphasizing fingerstyle precision and promoting within contexts. These materials highlight approaches—combining thumb slaps with finger plucks—for enhanced control in improvisational solos. Sakurai's style extends the innovations of by incorporating melodic sensibilities, blending Pastorius's harmonic sophistication and fretless lyricism with accessible, hook-driven lines evident in his tribute album "It's A Jaco Time!" This synthesis is briefly enabled by gear like his fretless basses, which support extended-range techniques.

Equipment and endorsements

Signature basses and gear

Tetsuo Sakurai has primarily utilized a variety of electric basses suited to , evolving from classic four-string models in his early career to extended-range instruments in later years. During his tenure with in the late 1970s and 1980s, he frequently employed the for its versatile, punchy tone on albums like . He also used the BB2000, a bolt-on neck model with active electronics, on the same recording, appreciating its clarity and balance for rhythms. Additionally, the DMZ-6000B appeared in his setup during this period, providing a bright, aggressive edge for live performances. In the 2010s, Sakurai shifted toward extended-range basses, incorporating five- and six-string configurations to accommodate the low common in modern . Around 2010, he began favoring basses, particularly the series, for their ergonomic design and tonal warmth, using them extensively through the 2010s alongside other models. 's Custom Shop produced three models for him over six years, including a 2016 masterbuilt version with enhanced playability. His signature 6-String Fretted features a 26-fret with cherry inlays and LED lighting, an Afzelia top over ash body, and a special Chrome Green/Yellow/White burst finish for visual distinction. Complementing this, the fretless variant uses a 24-fret board, Afzelia throughout the body, and a Faded Chrome French Violet finish, drawing inspiration from Jaco Pastorius-style designs for fluid, vocal-like expression. As of 2025, Sakurai continues to use a variety of basses, including his signature and models, as seen in recent live performances with the white BB5000. Yamaha also collaborated on a signature model, the TRB-SII Tetsuo Sakurai Signature, a six-string bass with a laminated maple-ash-mahogany body, 34-inch scale maple neck, ebony fingerboard, and active three-band EQ for precise tonal shaping in complex jazz lines. For fretless work, such as on his 2013 tribute to Pastorius, he employed a Fender Custom Shop Jaco Pastorius Tribute Fretless Jazz Bass, emphasizing smooth glissandi and harmonic richness. He occasionally incorporates a six-string acoustic bass from Athlete Axe for unplugged settings, blending upright-like resonance with electric versatility. Sakurai prefers La Bella strings for their balanced tension and clear articulation across his extended-range setups. He predominantly plays fingerstyle to achieve nuanced in contexts, though he incorporates picks for sharper attacks on select recordings. This gear evolution supports his innovative and techniques by providing extended range without sacrificing intonation or comfort.

Amplifiers and effects

Sakurai primarily relies on Markbass amplification for both live and studio applications, endorsing the brand for its natural yet punchy tone that complements his style, with the partnership ongoing as of 2025. He frequently uses the Little Mark Ninja 1000-watt head and 500-watt head, paired with cabinets such as the 104HF (4x10) for high-fidelity output and the 102P (2x10) for portability during tours. These choices provide the clarity and power needed to cut through dense band arrangements while maintaining the essential to his playing. In terms of effects, Sakurai maintains a minimalistic setup to prioritize the organic sound of his basses, incorporating for sustained and subtle for textural depth in contexts. Key pedals include the Aguilar TLC to even out and add sustain, the Markbass MB Raw Octaver for low-end enhancement, and the Line 6 Helix multi-effects unit to access , , and delay sounds reminiscent of his ambient, Moog-like tones in solo works. Earlier setups from his era featured rack units like the Yamaha SPX-90 for chorus and delay effects, alongside a DBX 160X / to handle live band volumes. He also employs utility pedals such as the FV-100 volume pedal and Pitchblack Mini tuner to support seamless transitions in performance. This approach avoids overprocessing, allowing effects to enhance rather than dominate his precise technique. Sakurai's endorsements extend to Markbass as a long-term partner, where he has highlighted the brand's ergonomic design and tonal versatility in official artist profiles. Additionally, his role as a at Bass Camp from 2014 to 2016 involved demonstrating and effects , influencing gear selections for educational sessions and collaborations. For live setups, Sakurai adapts his rig based on context: full band tours with reunions or Jimsaku utilize a complete Markbass stack for robust projection, while solo acoustic performances employ a streamlined configuration emphasizing clean preamp processing via the Grace Design to highlight unadorned bass lines. This versatility ensures tonal consistency across his , tribute band, and solo endeavors.

Discography

Casiopea contributions

Tetsuo Sakurai was the bassist for from its formation in 1976 until 1989, contributing to 19 studio and live albums that defined the band's early era. His bass lines formed the rhythmic backbone of the group's sound, driving fusion-pop hybrids with precise, funky grooves that complemented guitarist Issei Noro's melodies and the ensemble's improvisational flair. Across these releases, Sakurai appeared on approximately 200 tracks, emphasizing syncopated patterns and melodic counterpoints that elevated the band's accessible yet technically demanding style. Key early works include the debut album (1979), where Sakurai's electric bass anchored high-energy tracks like "Black Joke," a showcase for his slap technique and rhythmic drive in live performances. The follow-up Super Flight (1980) and (1980) highlighted his role in blending jazz complexity with pop accessibility, as seen in upbeat fusions like "Midnight Rendezvous," while the live recording Thunder Live (1980) captured his improvisational bass solos amid the band's energetic stage presence. In the early 1980s, albums such as (1981) and Cross Point (1981) demonstrated Sakurai's versatility in supporting intricate keyboard and guitar interplay, with his providing a solid foundation for tracks exploring melodic fusion themes. The live standout (1982) featured extended features, including solos that exemplified his speed and groove innovation, drawing from influences. Later releases like Jive Jive (1983), Halle (1985), and Sun Sun (1986) continued this emphasis, with Sakurai's contributions underscoring the band's evolution toward brighter, more pop-infused rhythms. Sakurai also earned composer credits on select tracks, such as "Love You Day by Day" from Photographs (1983), where his writing integrated vocal elements and bass-driven hooks into the fusion framework. In live contexts across albums like Down Upbeat (1984) and Platinum (1987), his solos were prominently highlighted, reinforcing his status as a pivotal force in Casiopea's rhythmic identity before his departure in 1989.

Jimsaku and other group albums

Following the dissolution of in 1989, Tetsuo Sakurai formed the instrumental duo Jimsaku with drummer , emphasizing improvisational duets that highlighted their rhythmic interplay and technical prowess. The project produced eleven albums between 1990 and 2021, blending influences from Sakurai's Brazilian travels with intricate bass-drums dialogues. Key releases include the self-titled debut Jimsaku (1990), which established their signature sound through tracks like "Nessa"; 45°C (1991), incorporating Latin rhythms; Jade (1992) and Viva! (1992), exploring upbeat grooves; 100% Jimsaku (1993) and Wind Loves Us (1993), featuring expansive improvisations; (1994), with its earthy textures; Blaze of Passion (1995), a high-energy collection; Dispensation (1996), delving into atmospheric soundscapes; Mega db (1997), showcasing dynamic shifts; and the reunion album Jimsaku Beyond (2021), reuniting the pair for refreshed takes on classics. A , Best Selection (1995), captured their early highlights, while the duo disbanded in 1998 before reconvening two decades later. In parallel, Sakurai contributed to Shambara, a short-lived city pop vocal band he co-formed with Jimbo in 1989, featuring twin vocalists Kaoru Akimoto and Yurie Kokubu alongside keyboardist Kunihiko Ryo and guitarist Nozomi Furukawa. The group's sole album, Shambara (1989), fused synth funk with pop sensibilities, marking a transitional project before Jimsaku's launch. Sakurai's group endeavors extended into the 2000s and beyond with the acoustic duo Pegasus, alongside guitarist Issei Noro (another Casiopea alum), releasing Pegasus ~ Acoustic Duo (2010), a live-derived album of reimagined fusion standards like "Little Wing" and "The Chicken" emphasizing unplugged interplay. The twin-bass unit Tetsujino, pairing Sakurai with bassist Kenji "Jino" Hino, issued Double Trouble (2008), a bold experiment in dual-bass grooves across tracks such as "Brother" and "Eternal Journey." Additionally, the collaborative effort Vital World (2010) saw Sakurai leading a power trio with guitarist Greg Howe and drummer Dennis Chambers, delivering high-octane fusion on cuts like "Another Kingdom," blending Sakurai's melodic lines with the guests' virtuosity. From 2021 onward, Sakurai joined the Katsushika Trio (K3) with on drums and keyboardist Minoru Mukaitani (a fellow Casiopea founder), producing multiple albums rooted in with live touring emphasis. Releases include the debut M.R.I_Mirai (2023), featuring hits like "Shibamata Twilight" that topped jazz charts; Wild Guys In The Universe (2024), with energetic tracks such as "Red Express"; and Organic feat. LA Strings (2025), incorporating orchestral elements for a mature sound. These efforts, alongside live recordings and tours, underscore Sakurai's ongoing commitment to ensemble innovation, contributing to approximately 15-20 group albums beyond Casiopea and his solo output.

Solo and collaborative releases

Tetsuo Sakurai has released over ten albums throughout his career, showcasing his versatility in , Brazilian influences, and tribute works. His debut effort, Dewdrops (1986), established his signature sound with intricate bass lines and fusion elements. Subsequent releases like A Gate of the 21st Century (1999) and TLM 20 ~ Live Memories of 20 Years ~ (2000) highlighted live performances and reflections on his two decades in music. The album Gentle Hearts (2001), featuring guitarists and drummer , marked a high point in his collaborative style, blending technical prowess with melodic accessibility. Later solo projects expanded Sakurai's exploratory range. Cartas do Brasil (2003), recorded in , incorporated vocal covers and collaborations with Brazilian artists such as and , emphasizing and rhythms. My Dear Musiclife (2009), his eighth solo album, delved into personal musical inspirations with a mix of original compositions. Vital World (2010) reunited him with Howe and Chambers for energetic fusion tracks, while Talking Bass (2012) spotlighted a duet with , focusing on conversational bass interplay. The tribute album It's a Jaco Time! (2013) honored through reinterpreted classics and originals, performed with a dedicated . A 2016 limited edition reissue of Dewdrops underscored ongoing interest in his early work. Nothin' But the Bass (2005) further exemplified his unaccompanied bass explorations. Beyond pure solo endeavors, Sakurai has pursued significant non-group collaborations that highlight acoustic and duo formats. IMO (2007) paired him with acoustic guitarist Rynten Okazaki for intimate pieces. Double Trouble (2008) featured a with Kenji Hino, emphasizing technical dialogue. The Pegasus series (2010), an acoustic duo with guitarist Noro, produced both a and DVD, exploring unplugged interpretations of material. Live collaborative efforts include Gentle Hearts Tour 2004 (2005, and DVD) with Howe and Chambers, and Brasil Connection feat. Filo Machado (2006 , 2007 DVD), capturing performances infused with flair. These projects often bridge Sakurai's roots with broader improvisational contexts. Sakurai has also contributed to instructional and live media, releasing four instructional DVDs on techniques, including Sakurai Style Slap Bass (2009), which breaks down his slapping and fingerstyle methods for aspiring players. Complementing these are seven live DVDs documenting his solo tours and collaborations, such as the Gentle Hearts Tour 2004 and Brasil Connection releases, providing visual insights into his stage dynamics and improvisational approach. No major solo singles or EPs tied to tours have emerged between 2020 and 2025, though Sakurai remains active in live performances.

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