The third instalment of BBE's fascinating trawl through the more obscure waters of Japanese jazz does not disappoint. As was the case with its predecessors, the standard of artistry is consistently high and the work of the new ‘old' artists more than supports the theory that improvised music in the Far East has a wealth of hidden talent with notable stylistic variety. Having said that, if there is a strong common thread running through the 13 tracks on offer, then it is the spirit of the John Coltrane quartet, whose 1966 tour made an indelible mark on many local musicians. Echoes of Trane's epoch-defining sound, with its entrancing modes and yearning melodies, can be heard in the gorgeously lush lyricism of Aki Takase trio's ‘Song For Hope', which is arguably the highlight of the whole collection. Elsewhere fans of horn-led small groups will find much to enjoy, as the saxophonists and trumpeters in all the bands featured are no slouches. If there is still a great deal to learn about the Japanese jazz scene, then this latest edition of essential compilations is a most welcome kind of 101 basic training. The CD version contains three bonus tracks not on the triple LP.