On "New Direction" Yukiko Matsuyama fuses mysterious harp sounds with traditional American Jazz fusion for an edgy Jazz sound which builds with intensity through a variety of trasitions similar to the musical vibe of Bob James, but with a strong Japanse influence. With authority and grace Yukiko uses the Koto, an ancient 7th century instrument also known as a 13-string zither or harp, which is Japan's national instrument. She delivers the sounds of her native country while infusing elements of jazz, pop, new age, and world music into her mesmerizing compositions. "New Direction" is featured on Yukiko's 2011 album "Crème Brulée", a musical feast which blends the Japanese flavors of the Koto with rhythms from around the world . Personell features Greg Vail on flute and saxophone, Diana Dentino on piano & keyboards, Vince VanTrigt on bass, Mike Bennett on drums & percussion, with help from Daniel Mulliken on cello, David Brock on violin & viola, Chris Darrow and Dave Wood on guitar & Michael Kotzen on cajon.