Vladimir Shafranov Trio - Soul Eyes ~ relaxin’ moods (180g Double Vinyl LP)

Born in Leningrad, pianist Vladimir Shafranov has long enjoyed cult status among Japanese jazz aficionados. After decades of acclaim following his introduction to the Japanese market in the 1990s, Shafranov makes his highly anticipated Venus Records debut with Soul Eyes ~ relaxin' Moods—a landmark album that brings his signature elegance and lyrical touch to the label for the first time.

Shafranov’s storied career includes a defining period in New York, where he performed alongside legends such as Stan Getz, Chet Baker, and Dizzy Gillespie. This trio album for Venus, featuring bassist Hans Backenroth and drummer Moussa Fadera, contains nine fascinating tracks, ranging from the rhythmic drive of “You’ve Changed” to the profound, balladic beauty of “Django” and the title track, “Soul Eyes.” Recorded on June 2 and 3, 2025, at RMV Studio in Stockholm, Sweden, the album is a masterclass in expansive musical nuance.

Now reissued for 2026 as part of the prestigious VENUS MASTERPIECE LP COLLECTION, this premium limited edition 180g Double Vinyl LP set brings these definitive performances to a deluxe vinyl format. Mixed and mastered by the legendary sound engineer Tetsuo Hara, and housed in a stunning gatefold jacket with OBI strip, this release ensures that every lyrical detail is preserved in its entirety without omission.