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ZY THE WAY - "Then and Now" A recording that blends ancient Chinese poetry with jazz, improvisation, and more. In a groundbreaking convergence of cultural heritage and modern artistry, the innovative jazz ensemble ZY THE WAY announces the release of their highly anticipated debut full-length album, Then And Now. Set to drop on November 8, 2024, this album promises to redefine the boundaries of music and historical narrative, blending the timeless beauty of ancient Chinese poetry with the sophisticated sounds of contemporary jazz, improvisation and global influences. A Cultural Odyssey in Music Based in Taipei, ZY THE WAY stands at the forefront of a new musical revolution. Their music transforms the ancient verses of the Book of Songs (Shijing 詩經), a cornerstone of Chinese literary tradition compiled by Confucius nearly 3, 000 years ago, into vibrant, modern compositions. The band’s debut EP, A Different Destiny, has already garnered critical acclaim, earning a prestigious 3.5-star review from Downbeat Magazine and captivating audiences in Australia and Taiwan. Then And Now elevates this unique fusion to unprecedented heights, showcasing the group's extraordinary ability to bridge past and present. Unearthing the Depths of the Shijing 詩經 Then And Now draws its lyrical inspiration from the Book of Songs (Shijing 詩經), an anthology from the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE). As the earliest and most revered collection of Chinese literary works, the Shijing offers a rich reflection of early Chinese society, capturing its social, cultural, and spiritual ethos. Collaborating closely with Dr. Annie Luman Ren, an award-winning translator and classical Chinese scholar, ZY THE WAY helps enrich the world’s awareness and understanding of these ancient texts. This deepened insight for themselves as well has empowered the band to craft jazz compositions that honor the historical and artistic essence of the poems, blending traditional scholarship with innovative creativity. Track Highlights and Historical Context of Poems 1. Sun In The East 東方之日 Utilizing celestial imagery, this poem captures the sometimes fleeting nature of romantic encounters in addition to symbolizing the ephemeral beauty of love and courtship within ancient Chinese society. 2. Then And Now 權輿 This piece reflects on the contrast between a once-glorious past and present challenges, offering a profound commentary on the cyclical nature of prosperity, societal change, and personal fortune. 3. Agile 還 Celebrating the skill of hunters, this poem, in addition to expressing the perennial exhilaration of mostly-friendly competition, highlights the ceremonial and social aspects of hunting in ancient China, underscoring its cultural significance. 4. Wild Winds 終風 Attributed to the first known female poet Zhuang Jiang, this melancholic poem explores emotional turmoil through tumultuous weather, providing insight into the personal suffering experienced by ancient women. 5. Wedding Night 綢繆 This celebratory poem employs celestial imagery to emphasize the importance of the wedding night, highlighting the beauty of transformation, ecstasy, and ceremonial significance of marriage. 6. Ten Acres 十畝之間 Portraying the tranquility of rural life, this poem underscores the harmony between work and leisure, celebrating the simplicity of agrarian existence. It is, simply put, about having a good time after work. 7. A Hermit's Hut 考槃 Inspired by Daoist philosophy, this poem reflects on the peace and solitude found in nature, representing the ideal of spiritual fulfillment through seclusion. 8. Blue Collar 子衿 Capturing the emotional landscape of yearning and separation, this poem resonates with deep intensity, connecting ancient sentiments with contemporary audiences who often reference it in their expressions of love. About Zy The Way Originating from Taipei, Taiwan, ZY THE WAY has been trailblazing since 2019 by seamlessly merging ancient Chinese poetry from the Classic of Poetry (Shijing 詩經) with jazz improvisation and futuristic sounds. Their innovative approach breathes new life into 3000-year-old literary masterpieces while celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of the Chinese diaspora through a contemporary musical lens. An in-house multimedia producer and poetry reader further enhance audience engagement by blending visual and sonic elements into their performances. ZY THE WAY’s music stands out for its originality, featuring memorable melodies and a strong focus on groove, making it both profound and accessible. Their genre-defying sound draws on the vitality and tradition of jazz, integrating styles with the structural sophistication of Western classical music. These compositions are crafted with a natural ease, inviting listeners with an open ear to explore and enjoy. Promising an unforgettable musical journey, ZY THE WAY transcends cultural boundaries and captivates diverse audiences worldwide. |
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