Tatsu Aoki the genial, brilliant metaphysical technician of the bass is also founder of the Chicago Asian-American Jazz Festival -- not to mention a snappy dresser.

He's appeared on about 40 different projects as a sideman, is currently active with several groups as a musician, producer, and composer, and has recorded six acclaimed solo CDs. Firmly entrenched in both the worlds of experimental music and the fold arts, Tatsu has practiced the traditional Japanese art of Taiko drumming since a child, yet plays the stand-up bass in free-bop and straight-ahead amalgamations and finds new means of expression in the free-jazz arena with Fred Anderson, Mwata Bowden and Malachi Favors. Tatsu rejects pigeon-holing, however, and and is happiest to be described merely as a 'bassist'.

Although he has his choice of numerous projects, Tatsu says, "My decision to commit myself to be a part of this band was because this band seems to offer something that I can do well. What's important to me is when the music is good."

"You have to listen to the other players. My approach to the band is the same way as my other ones. I just pay attention to what's going on."

Never a mere listener, Tatsu's kinetic accompaniment respects tradition while finding plenty of creative room to stretch out, as he does on his thoroughly inventive plucking and bowing solos and on his striking finish to Snow Country.

"I don't think any band playing blues in Chicago has a sound like this," says Tatsu who as a senior member of Jazz Me Blues has done much to contribute to that sound. "It's always refreshing. What I really love is that there is so much in this band that is about humor and fun."