Recorded over two days in the middle of 2019, this release finds Hwang (violin, viola) combining with drummer Andrew Drury and bassist Ken Filiano to create music which is only possible when musicians know each other intimately. Hwang may be listed as the composer, but all those involved with this have taken a concept and then run with it in whatever direction the muse takes them. According to Hwang, “Each composition is a progression of gestures, songs, movements and locations that bring participants into a state of discovery and compassion. Within these Human Rites, individual voices are empowered to be fully expressive so that each moment is unpredictable and deeply intentional. This psychic intensity, both sacred and sacrificial, provokes a heightened awareness that unifies listeners and musicians within a spiritual entrainment. As we hear ourselves within music, we become Music, which is no longer a performance but an affirmation of justice and celebration of life.”

There is a great deal of dissonance within the six instrumentals, as both Jason and Ken push their instruments to the very limits, creating sounds which surely were never intended to be drawn from the strings. This is not an easy album to listen to, as it is incredibly challenging throughout, and there is no doubt that even jazz aficionados would find elements of this not to their taste. There are times when it really does feel like a chore as opposed to pleasure, but then there are sections, or at least consecutive bars, when the music is turned on its head and there is real beauty to be found. For those who want their expectations to be challenged and their musical boundaries stretched far into the distance. Mainstream this is not, but rather adventurous jazz being explored by a trio who react to each other in somewhat unexpected ways.

Rating: 7/10

Links:
https://jasonkaohwang.com/