Uncharted Faith

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde realm of "Uncharted Faith," the captivating collaboration between innovative electronic artist J.A. Deane and virtuoso violinist Jason Kao Hwang. Released on October 1, 2022, via Tone Science Music, this 48-minute journey is a testament to the power of improvisation and remote collaboration. The album features six intricate tracks that blend free jazz and avant-garde elements, creating a sonic landscape that is as deeply spiritual as it is chaotically fascinating.

The duo's unique approach to music-making is evident throughout the album. J.A. Deane, known for his innovative electronic compositions, worked remotely with Jason Kao Hwang, who contributed improvised solo acoustic violin performances. This dynamic interplay between electronic textures and acoustic violin creates a rich, layered sound that is both edgy and densely packed.

"Uncharted Faith" opens with "Parallel Universe," setting the stage for the sonic exploration that follows. Tracks like "Singularity" and "Crossing the Horizon" showcase the duo's ability to push the boundaries of traditional jazz, while "Shamans of Light" and "Speaking in Tongues" delve into more experimental territories. The album concludes with the titular track, "Uncharted Faith," a fitting finale that encapsulates the spirit of the entire record.

Jason Kao Hwang's violin work is a standout feature, with his expressive playing adding a human touch to the electronic backdrop. Dino Duo also contributes to the album, further enriching the sonic palette. Whether you're a fan of free jazz, avant-garde music, or simply appreciate innovative soundscapes, "Uncharted Faith" is sure to captivate and inspire.

October 3, 2022

2022 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.