Hex is a Tokyo-based club jazz group founded by DJ/producer Toshio Matsuura, formerly of the United Future Organization. Rather than melding jazz with hip-hop or R&B, the group's compositions are directly structured to include electronica as an instrument in the mix. Other musicians in Hex's lineup also include pianist/keyboardist/producer Kan Sano, "Soil & Pimp" Sessions' drummer Midorin, noted jazz pianist Ito Shikou, and electric bassist Yoshihito P. Koizumi (P-Project). The group's recording engineer, zAk, is considered an equal partner, thus making the band a true hexagon in its sonic and improvisational approach. The group's self-titled debut album was issued by Blue Note Records in Japan in 2013. ~ Thom Jurek