Blue Giant Supreme is a singular work in the world of manga. She is on the side of the seinen even if the goal of the protagonist is to become the best jazzman in the world. A recurring leitmotif in shonen. The story of Ishikuza Shinichi although fictional, has solid assets that make this story published by Glénat, an effective introduction to this exciting slice of life. A direct sequel to Blue Giant, the plot begins with the departure of Dai Miyamoto to Germany. He is about to take up a seemingly insurmountable challenge, to conquer Europe with his music. The first leg of his journey took him to Munich, Germany. A narrative choice that may surprise if you are not a connoisseur. The country of the Mannschaft is indeed a land of Jazz.
Germany, one of the cradles of jazz?
We are not the only ones with excellent jazz credentials. Examples include the Germans Peter Brötzmann and Albert Mangelsdorff. The two artists have left their mark on the world of free jazz. Mangelsdorff is no longer of this world but he is considered one of the best trombonists in the field. Brötzmann has some similarities with our hero since just like him, he is distinguished by his powerful breath and the intensity of his playing. The fact that he is a saxophonist may indicate that he may be a source of inspiration for the mangaka. Munich is a city with a rich history in the world of jazz. Yes, the ECM label, an important player in the world of European jazz, has been operating there since the late 60s. We notice the important investigative work on the part of the author in deciding to make Munich the first stopover city for his hero.
Can an Asian Jazzman succeed in Europe?
At the end of volume 10 of Blue Giant, Dai made the decision following Jass's accident, to leave for Europe. A radical choice but not surprising when you understand the personality of the musician. He is an artist who must constantly move forward in order to evolve. "He is not one of those who can be stopped"… Dai's luggage to win in Germany is light. A few things, a little money, his tenor saxophone and that's it. He does not speak German at all but can express himself in broken English. Several major handicaps to impose oneself in an unknown country. However, the number one obstacle for the musician isthe difference in culture. He who is the embodiment of an expansive Jazz, he realizes at his first contacts with the jazz clubs of the city that the public is very discreet. Is this a common mentality in Europe? Will he have to adapt his music to their expectations? These are just some of the questions that emanate from Dai's mind. It is not easy to start from scratch after a very good period in Tokyo. The artist is completely unknown in Munich, so we understand the hesitation of the owners towards him. In addition, we must admit that a jazz enthusiast will not think of Japan as a possible provider of talent for this musical style.
Blue Giant Supreme 1: A very nice introduction
Dai's beginnings on European soil are promising. Ishizuka continues to make the most of his hero's unwavering will. The more his road seems strewn with pitfalls, the stronger he becomes. The plates are beautiful and transcribe with a striking realism all the specificities of German cities. The realistic sets were made from photos. Our immersion is total. From a strictly musical point of view, the style of the designer shines when he stages his creation in these moments of improvisation. Shinichi and Dai are in perfect symbiosis, we fully feel the passion of the musician, and the least of his fears. We are waiting for the sequel that should arrive for the month of January at Glénat manga. For those who are resistant to jazz, take a look at The Great Pretender, a quality anime from Netflix.
