Kashiwa first made his mark as one of the most compelling young saxophonists in contemporary jazz with The Rippingtons, touring internationally and recording multiple albums that showcased his expressive tone with a jazz fusion flair. His bold nature was evident even in this early phase of his career. He surprised many when he left the group to venture out on his own, driven by a desire to pursue more dynamic endeavor.

He then co-founded The Sax Pack, a trio of saxophone headliners (along with Steve Cole and Kim Waters) charming audiences across the U.S. with a blend of jazz, funk, R&B, and pure fun. This move showcased his playful personality and knack for creating a unique on-stage camaraderie.

Stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, Kashiwa began crafting his own sound, categorized as “pop/art song/folk” and “smooth jazz” with distinct global influences. Whether it’s the upbeat grooves of “Peace of Mind” or the eclectic spirit of “Eclectica,” his storytelling quality pulls listeners in, and his versatility stands out, as he shifts seamlessly from smooth ballads to energetic jams.

His latest 2024 album, “Luminoso,” is another shift for Kashiwa—a unique themed album centered on contemporary Brazilian music. Fellow musician Jeff Volkman, a longtime friend who last performed with Kashiwa in high school, reached out with an enticing project. Volkman asked Kashiwa to play saxophone on a Brazilian jazz tribute adapting the compositions of the renowned Brazilian artist Joyce Moreno.

Kashiwa “jumped at the chance” to work with new music he found to be beautiful and unique. After recording a few songs, they decided to turn the collaboration into Kashiwa’s next solo CD release, and “Luminoso” was born. Driven by artistic passion and a fearless desire to step into something new, the album is both a left turn from Jeff’s prior work and a testament to his ongoing musical exploration.

Together, Kashiwa’s career unfolds as more than a series of events, but a continuous willingness to seek what is next on the horizon.

Enjoy this evening of a mix of Jeff Kashiwa’s music, on September 20th.

For more about Jeff Kashiwa, see our other articles on his musical approach.