Human Rites Trio

"Human Rites Trio," the 2020 release from Jason Kao Hwang, is a powerful testament to the resilience and heroism of frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recorded over two days in mid-2019 and released during the height of the pandemic, this album is a tribute to the doctors, nurses, and essential workers who have been tirelessly saving lives. The album features six tracks of innovative free jazz and avant-garde compositions, each one a testament to Hwang's mastery of the violin and viola.

Hwang, a veteran New York violinist and violist, has collaborated with legendary figures such as Anthony Braxton, William Parker, and the late Butch Morris. On "Human Rites Trio," he teams up with bassist Ken Filiano and drummer Andrew Drury to create a sonic landscape that is both haunting and hopeful. The album's title track, "Words Asleep Spoken Awake: Part I & II," sets the tone with its intricate interplay between the instruments, while "Conscious Concave Concrete" and "2 Am" offer moments of introspection and reflection. "Battle for the Indelible Truth" and "Defiance" close out the album with a sense of urgency and determination, reflecting the spirit of those fighting on the frontlines.

With a duration of just over 52 minutes, "Human Rites Trio" is a concise yet impactful listen. The album's themes of resilience, hope, and defiance are woven throughout the compositions, making it a poignant and timely release. Whether you're a longtime fan of Jason Kao Hwang or new to his work, "Human Rites Trio" is sure to leave a lasting impression. The album was released on True Sound Recordings, further cementing Hwang's status as a leading figure in the world of avant-garde and free jazz.

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.

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