Master percussionist Taku Hirano has been called ‘my secret weapon’ by none other than the musical icon Mick Fleetwood. He has worked with everyone from Stevie Nicks to Stevie Wonder, Dr. Dre to Dr. John. His eagerness to learn and participate in all styles of music is well documented, with years of study under master conguero Giovanni Hidalgo and graduating as the first Hand Percussion principal at Berklee School of Music, to graduate studies in West African and North Indian musical traditions at California Institute of The Arts, to a month of research in Havana studying at the home of Afro-Cuban percussion master Changuito. The breadth of Taku’s experience and journey cannot be overstated.

25 years into his career as a top-gun percussionist, Taku Hirano’s journey has come full-circle. Having lived in New York City for over a decade, he has gone back to his own roots in hand percussion and jazz as a bandleader. Having a second home in New Orleans for the last 15 years and marrying into the Neville family, legendary for their musical heritage, Taku has also immersed himself into a rich American culture older than America itself.

From our friends at Modern Icon Recordings comes Blu York, a moment in time captured for all to hear. Taku Hirano and his powerful band live at Nublu. Marvin Sewell (guitar), Bruce Flowers (Keys), Fred Cash (Bass), and Adrian Harpham (Drums) bringing Taku’s rhythms forward, with special guest Keyon Harrold on the trumpet. Settle in folks, it’s gonna go deep. The first track - Come and Get It - hits today.