After two singles, Danpyunsun and the Moments Ensemble released a full length. Hail to the Music includes those singles along with eight other songs. This collective combines their talents and presents a style that’s been missing from Korean music for a while – an original and unique perspective on music.
The introduction “Land of Hope and Glory(and The Things)” sets expectations by taking the British anthem and adding strong embellishments. This deliberate action also feels like listeners should expect something different. “Independent” is the perfect example.
The previously released single starts with a mysterious piano intro before swinging in an entirely new direction. “Independent” carries a theater-esque presentation mixed with jazz and indie elements crossing paths with strings. It’s a collision that results in an amazing melody.
And when considering Danpyunsun’s history and Danpyunsun and the Moments Ensemble collective, there’s a mixture of somewhat recognizable elements along with some newer styles or ideas. I think when Danpyunsun is solo, the songs all venture into a specific audio space. But as a collective, the Moments Ensemble helps elevate ideas even further.
Hail to the Music is a journey. It’s not an album that really works as a set of songs. Instead, each song plays an integral part of the entire 51-minute experience. And I think going into the album blind is the best way to appreciate it.
You’re going to hear a lot of ideas and phrases expanded and contracted as needed. Danpyunsun and the Moments Ensemble let songs exist instead of needing to move from verse to verse.
“Alice in Deep” is definitely one of the songs that sticks out because it splits the album and gives listeners a chance to rest a bit. After listening to Hail to the Music a few times, it is clear that Danpyunsun has evolved as an artist too. There are still the experimental aspects to the style but it feels a lot more focused.
Listen to Hail to the Music. It presents music that’s a lot more interesting than many recent releases. Also, it tells a comprehensive audio story and hits all the high points rather than teasing them. It has a timeless sound that people will discover new things about the more they hear it.
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Written by Chris P for Korean Indie.