Interlude (Toshiko Akiyoshi album)

Interlude is a jazz album by pianist, composer, and bandleader Toshiko Akiyoshi, released in 1987 on Concord Jazz Records (CJ-321). It features Akiyoshi on piano, Frank Wess on tenor saxophone and flute, Lew Tabackin on tenor saxophone, Rufus Reid on bass, and Joey Baron on drums.

The album consists of eight tracks, primarily standards and original compositions by Akiyoshi. It showcases Akiyoshi's piano playing in a small group setting, allowing for more intimate and conversational interplay between the musicians than her big band arrangements. The selection of Wess and Tabackin brings a diverse range of tenor saxophone stylings to the ensemble.

Notable tracks include interpretations of jazz standards like "A Night in Tunisia" and Akiyoshi's own composition "Interlude," from which the album derives its name. The album is considered a significant work in Akiyoshi's discography, highlighting her versatility as a pianist and her ability to lead small ensembles with finesse. It offers a glimpse into her individual musicianship beyond her large ensemble compositions.