Subaqueous Silence, pianist Ayumi Tanaka's leader debut for ECM is a strikingly original statement. Deep interest in the work of Norwegian improvisers prompted Tanaka's move, but she also speaks of a growing awareness of her own cultural roots; there is an ascetic rigour in her playing, as well as a sense of space suggesting affinities with Japanese classical music. Ayumi views the trio as "more like a chamber ensemble. We share a flow of energy, even in silence.