Her blend of post-bop and fusion has always been a step ahead of the international standard—sophisticated and incredibly virtuosic. But above all, Hiromi’s music is driven by an immense joy of playing. In her Sonic Wonderland (the title of her latest quartet album), the atmosphere is as colorful and electrifying as a bustling city at night.

Both trumpeter Adam O’Farrill and Hiromi herself incorporate electronic sound textures, allowing the pianist to explore the tonal palette of her secret love—the guitar. Playing the instrument was never a real option for her, though: “The piano is my best friend,” says Hiromi. “I need all 88 keys!”