The technically brilliant trio opened with the evergreen “I Hear A Rhapsody”, before the gutsy and sensitive Sumi Tonooka dug into the keys, presenting two spell-binding original compositions: the ballad-like “Shadow Waltz” and the grooving “Taking Time”. . . . Both with very exacting titles such as “Evidence” by Thelonius Monk, and well-known pieces like “Night and Day”, this high-class trio secured its position in the highest echelon through its unusually quick rapport, arrangements that shed new light on standards, and virtuosic improvisations. . . . A genuine live experience of the highest magnitude!

– Gustav Sigg

Fierce, fascinating composer and pianist . . . a thoughtful, fresh voice . . . delicate and articulate . . . driving and dramatic.

– Leslie Gourse, Jazz Times

Revelatory . . . reminds you that originality is possible. She’s made her phrasing and touch personal; her lines breathe. . . . Her compositions . . . are rock solid without a moment of indecision or mistake. Technique is mastered by imagination, inspiration by intellect. She comes to her own conclusions, which is what jazz is all about.

– Peter Watrous, Musician Magazine

Tonooka . . . opened her set with a crackling interpretation of Thelonius Monk’s “Eronel.” The dispatch with which Tonooka negotiated Monk’s precipitous lines left no doubt that she is among the best of today’s jazz pianists. . . . At no time did Tonooka sound like a piano solist accompanied by bass and drums. The three instruments were fully interactive. . . . A brilliant performance.

– Francis Davis, the Philadelphia Inquirer

Her Trio . . . swings with clear delight and easy grace.

– USA Today

Continually inventive, original, surprising, and a total delight.

–Don Hillegas, Cuadranos de Jazz, Madrid

Provocative and compelling, both in straight out swinging situations and when she is developing fresh ideas for familar ballads.

– John WIlson, The New York Times

Her handful of jazz recordings remain among the most distinctive trio recordings released in the 90's.

– Neil Tesser, The Readers Guide, Critics Choice, Chicago

... has absorbed the piano tradition of the likes of Bill Evans and Ahmad Jamal and infuses with new vigor.

– Lee Jeske, Cash Box, jazz Feature picks

Tonooka is dynamic, wellgrounded in the modern keyboard giants, her post-Hancock solo skills and contemporary keyboard voicings are first class, and comping delightful too.

– Jazzwise, London