ALIVE is the long-awaited debut solo album of Hiroyuki Kurogane, bass trombonist of the prestigious NHK Symphony Orchestra since 2009 and one of Japan's foremost brass musicians. His career includes First Prize and the Grand Prix across all divisions at the Jeju International Brass Competition and First Prize at the Japan Wind and Percussion Competition, alongside wide-ranging work in chamber music and as a soloist. The programme showcases his breathtaking virtuosity together with a deep, rich and resonant tone that effortlessly fills the hall, capturing the full expressive charm and nuance of the bass trombone. A further highlight is the ensemble playing with pianist Ayano Jo, a long-time collaborative partner. The result is a masterful and compelling bass trombone album, warmly recommended to all music lovers.