Renowned pianist Fumio Itabashi - whose dazzling technique - both energetic and serene - became the stuff of legend on his 1982 release Watarase - a release that ignited the contemporary jazz scene in Japan and gained cult status among international jazz connoisseurs, thanks to Itabashi's inventive piano playing and its lyrical and spiritual compositions. Compared by many to Pharoah Sanders who likewise "possessed a similar open-hearted blend of spiritualism, passionate intensity, and melodic beauty,” the much-honored performer will be at Blue Note this Saturday.