Blood

Album Description

Dive into the captivating world of Jason Kao Hwang's "Blood," a masterful blend of free jazz, avant-garde, and traditional Chinese music. Released in October 2018, this 47-minute album is a testament to Hwang's unique compositional voice and his uncompromising artistic vision. At the helm is violinist Jason Kao Hwang, leading his octet, Burning Bridge, through a single, continuous piece of music that is as challenging as it is captivating.

"Blood" features a stellar lineup including Taylor Ho Bynum on cornet and flugelhorn, Joseph Daley on tuba, Andrew Drury on drums, Ken Filiano on string bass, Sun Li on pipa, Wang Guowei on erhu, and Steve Swell on trombone. Recorded over two days in March 2018 at Kaleidoscope Sound in Union City, NJ, the album is a composite of creative jazz, free improvisation, and Chinese traditional music, reflecting Hwang's deep roots in New York’s Lower East Side avant-garde scene.

The album's title, "Blood," is a profound meditation on the human experience, inspired by Hwang's reflections on war and the resilience of the human spirit. The music within explores themes of conflict, regeneration, and the enduring strength of the human voice. Each track, from the haunting "Breath Within the Bomb" to the powerful "Declarations," offers a unique perspective on these themes, showcasing Hwang's mastery of improvisation and composition.

"Blood" is not just an album; it's an exploration of sound and meaning, a fusion of cultures, and a testament to the power of music to convey complex ideas. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Blood" promises an engaging and thought-provoking listening experience.

October 22, 2018

2018 Jason Kao Hwang

About Jason Kao Hwang

Jason Kao Hwang is a pioneering Chinese American violinist and composer who has carved out a unique niche in the world of experimental music. Born in 1957, Hwang is renowned for his unconventional and improvisational jazz violin technique, which he employs to create intricate and emotionally resonant compositions. His work often draws from a rich tapestry of influences, including jazz, classical, and traditional Chinese music, resulting in a sound that is distinctly his own.

Hwang's compositions are narrative landscapes, inviting the audience on transformational journeys through sound. His chamber opera, "The Floating Box: A Story in Chinatown," premiered in 2001 and was released in 2005, showcasing his ability to blend storytelling with innovative musical structures. He has been recognized multiple times by the El Intruso Critics and the Downbeat Critics’ Poll, cementing his status as a leading figure in avant-garde and free jazz.

As an educator and artist-in-residence at various institutions, Hwang has also dedicated himself to teaching and lecturing, sharing his unique perspective on music and culture. His ensembles, such as his trio with electric guitarist Anders Nilsson and drummer Michael T.A. Thompson, are known for their adventurous fusion sessions, where musical influences never sit still. Whether performing with a mixed ensemble of jazz, classical, and Chinese instruments or exploring the depths of improvisational soliloquies, Jason Kao Hwang continues to push the boundaries of what music can be.