“KAZE” means “wind” in Japanese, (as in ‘Kamikaze’ – divine wind) making it the perfect name for a small jazz ensemble.

Kaze is one of the finest jazz quartets in the world, pioneering experimental and improvisational jazz from composers trumpeter Natsuki Tamura and pianist Satoko Fujii performing with trumpeter Christian Pruvost and drummer Peter Orins from the French improvisers collective, Muzzix.

The free-jazz compositions performed by Kaze are known for being intelligent and abstract, melodic, playful and at times, confrontational. Each member takes a unique approach to his instrument – pushing the boundaries of the range of sounds which can be made and often playing with unorthodox techniques.

Performing at the Ainslie Arts Centre as part of an international tour that takes them to the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, the Kaze concert will be the first in the ‘Confluence season’ for 2016.

Originating in 2015 as a partnership between Ainslie and Gorman Arts Centres and Shoeb Ahmed and Thomas Fell, ‘Confluence’ is a monthly jazz night that breaks down the boundaries between jazz, contemporary classical, electronic and improvised music to showcase young talents, established artists and the new school in Australian and international art music.

Kaze, at Ainslie Arts Centre, Elouera Street, Braddon, 7pm, January 14, bookings to agac.com.au or at the door.