THE TOKYO BLUES, a quintessential mid '60s Blue Note session, is Horace Silver's tribute to the Japanese people who have long supported his funky, Latin-flavoured modern jazz. American jazz has always been wildly popular in Japan, and thisalbum is Silver's homage to the many fans that he has encountered on various triumphant tours of the island nation. While Silver's trademark funky Latin/swing is at the forefront,the inspiration of eastern delights is clearly evident in all aspects of this grooving date. The bouncing blues of "Too Much Sake" sets the tone, a delightfully rhythmic melodyand a funky mambo supporting tight solos by Junior Cook (saxophone), Blue Mitchell (trumpet), and the leader himself. The most compelling cut is the title track. Dark, Oriental atmosphere is combined with Silver's punchy piano style and explosive playing by all for an intriguing mixture of east andwest. The only non-Silver composition, "Cherry Blossom", isa soft ballad that features a smoky performance by the pianist in the only trio setting of the session. Finally, the resounding chords of the closing "Ah, So" reflect far off lands before a burning solo section brings us back home.