About

— The Analog Vault // Essential Listening —

Recorded in 1975 for the legendary Three Blind Mice label, Green Caterpillar captures pianist Masaru Imada in peak form, balancing lyrical touch with deep rhythmic drive. Backed by a responsive trio, Imada moves effortlessly between modal exploration and swinging post-bop, with compositions that feel both relaxed and purposeful.

The album’s warm, intimate sound reflects Three Blind Mice’s audiophile ethos, allowing piano, bass, and drums to breathe naturally within the mix. Tracks like “Green Caterpillar” and “Straight Flash” highlight Imada’s melodic clarity and subtle harmonic shifts. Long prized by collectors, Green Caterpillar remains a cornerstone of Japanese jazz, celebrated for its musicality, balance, and timeless recording quality. — The Analog Vault

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- Cult jazz-funk masterpiece from the Three Blind Mice catalogue.
- Limited edition remastered reissue from the Three Blind Mice Premium Reissue Collection.
- 180g Japanese pressing with original obi strip and faithfully reproduced artwork.

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Pianist Imada Masaru was 42 years old when he recorded this album in 1975. His adventurous spirit led him to use the electric piano for the first time in a recording, and thanks to his musicianship, he made it sound like he'd been playing the instrument for years. The program opens with the title track, a sophisticated urban funk. Guitarist Kazumi Watanabe plays a big role here. It is followed by a more intricate, fusion-like "Straight Flash."

The all-original-composition program switches gear on Side B, with Imada playing acoustic piano. "Blue Impulse" is a Tristano-esque blues that, at the beginning, doesn't sound like a blues until it gets going at around the three minute mark. Perhaps the highlight of the album, "Spanish Flower" has Imada and company exploring the passionate Spanish mood, with some Japanese/oriental elements mixed in, in 6/8.

Produced by Takeshi Fujii. Recorded at Aoi Studio, Tokyo, on January 20 and 22, 1975, by Yoshihiko Kannari. — (via SoundOhm)
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Green Caterpillar is a standout work from pianist Masaru Imada, blending sophisticated jazz harmony with deep funk grooves and urban flair. Recorded with a powerful expanded lineup, the album showcases Imada’s sharp compositional sense alongside tight ensemble interplay and expressive soloing.

The title track delivers a hypnotic, groove-driven performance, while pieces like “Straight Flash” and “Blue Impulse” highlight the group’s rhythmic intensity and dynamic range. The lyrical “Spanish Flower” closes the album with warmth and emotional depth, making this release a favorite among collectors of Japanese jazz-funk.

This premium reissue is remastered and cut in Japan, pressed on heavyweight vinyl, and presented with original obi and inserts, offering an authentic listening experience that honors the legacy of the Three Blind Mice label. — (via Jazz Messengers)

Vinyl tracklist:
A1 Green Caterpillar // Written by Masaru Imada
A2 Straight Flash // Written by Masaru Imada
B1 Blue Impulse // Written by Masaru Imada
B2 Spanish Flower // Written by Masaru Imada

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Label: Three Blind Mice 
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Limited Edition, Reissue, Remastered, Stereo
Reissued: 2025 / Original: 1975
Genre: Jazz
Style: Jazz-Funk, Japanese Jazz

File under: TAV Essential Listening
File under: Japanese Jazz // Three Blind Mice
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