Solidscheme - Uyama Hiroto | A Freeform Jazz plunge with Uyama Hiroto

/// In a world where jazz often slips into familiar tropes, Uyama Hiroto’s "Solidscheme" stands out as a refreshing contradiction. Hailing from his 2017 album freeform jazz, this track is a playground of sound — a dreamy, almost rigid space where every beat and note tells its own story.

/// First Impressions

From the opening moments, "Solidscheme" plunges you into a soundscape that’s both ethereal and unyielding. The drums and bass are nothing short of explosive, bouncing you off imaginary walls with their relentless energy. Amidst this kinetic backdrop, the gentle interludes of vibraphone and electric piano offer moments of reprieve — mellow chords that create tiny pockets of comfort in an otherwise high-octane sonic universe. And then there’s the sax solo — a slow-burning, ever-growing cascade that gradually transforms the track’s mood.

/// Sound & Production

One of the most striking aspects of "Solidscheme" is its production. The drums are front and center, mixed with an intensity reminiscent of an R&B track’s crisp percussion, yet given the freedom to roar dynamically. Peeking over the powerful drum set, you catch glimpses of the electric piano, vibraphone, and bass — each treated with just a hint of reverb and delay to add an airy quality without losing their presence. It’s a meticulous balance that invites the listener to both feel the impact of the rhythm and appreciate the subtler textures interwoven throughout.

/// Melody & Harmony

As expected in a sophisticated jazz piece, complex chord progressions and intricate harmonies are spread throughout. For the first half of the song, the sax solo drifts smoothly through the chords — so gentle that it could easily be mistaken for the serene backdrop of a weather forecast. Yet this calm is never allowed to linger; the intensity of the drums and bass soon reminds you that you’re in the midst of something far more dynamic. It’s a delicate dance between serenity and exuberance — a balance that makes the track both captivating and unpredictable.

/// Rhythm & Groove

The heart of "Solidscheme" is undeniably its rhythm section. The bass delivers a demanding, almost insistent walking line that propels the track forward, while the drums pound with a force that might well put a hyper-charged session of Paul Wertico on full blast. Together, they create an unstoppable groove that makes it nearly impossible not to move — even if you’re simply sitting and soaking it all in.

/// Emotional & Visual Reactions

While the title "Solidscheme" might evoke images of a slick heist film soundtrack, this track is much more than that. It offers a dual invitation: you can lose yourself in the sheer intensity of its driving rhythm, or you can settle back and let the gentle interplay of vibraphone and electric piano reveal the delicate chaos from afar. It’s a track that asks, “Where do you want to sit today — the front row of pure kinetic energy or the back, where introspection meets melody?”

/// Final Thoughts

"Solidscheme" is a vivid testament to Uyama Hiroto’s ability to fuse contrasting elements into a cohesive whole. It’s fun, it’s challenging, and it’s undeniably lovely — a snapshot of his innovative approach to jazz that continues to defy expectations. Whether you’re drawn to its explosive percussion or the quiet solace of its slower interludes, this track is an invitation to explore the multifaceted world of freeform jazz, where intensity and calm coexist in perfect tension.

/// you can listen to this song here, and the rest of Uyama's discography as well. Also feel free to check out our spotify page where you can listen to all of our reviewed songs in one place.

Freeform Jazz by Uyama Hiroto