Sun-Mi Hong Quintet

In the organizer's words:

Sun-Mi Hong, the South Korean-born, Amsterdam-based musician, is regarded as one of the most imaginative percussionists and composers of her generation, continually pushing the boundaries of jazz and its intersections with different musical traditions. Her new album, the second release on Edition Records after Third Page: Resonance with her quintet, exemplifies her extraordinary ability to bridge the complex world of intricate composition and the vast realm of improvisation. This album, scheduled for release in March 2025, is a testament to her creative spirit and innovative artistry.

Formed in 2016, the Sun-Mi Hong Quintet was born out of Hong's quest for self-expression while grappling with the complexities of adapting to a new cultural landscape in the Netherlands. Hong chose her quintet for its empathetic and diverse personalities and found collaborators to support her in her quest to create a new sense of home while navigating the challenges of a new cultural environment. The ensemble includes Nicolò Ricci on tenor saxophone, Alistair Payne on trumpet, Chaerin Im on piano and Alessandro Fongaro on bass.
This album captures the collective experiences and emotions of the quintet during its creation and explores themes of melancholy and innocence influenced by Hong's South Korean heritage and personal life. The compositions are arranged as a series of emotional vignettes, with tracks such as "Meaning of a Nest", "Escapism", "Toddler's Eye" and "Heartstone" displaying a compelling balance of vibrant energy and contemplative stillness.
Sun-Mi's refined compositional approach is evident throughout the album, seamlessly blending intricate structures with the spontaneity of improvisation. Each track reflects a deep understanding of the band members' unique strengths, resulting in a cohesive and comprehensive listening experience where each improvisation and composition flows effortlessly into one another.

Hailed by DownBeat as a "strikingly original composer" and praised by Jazzwise as "as captivating as she is enigmatic", Sun-Mi Hong continues to redefine the boundaries of jazz with her innovative and impressive artistry.

Line-Up
Sun-Mi Hong - Drums
Chaerin Im - Piano
Alessandro Fongaro - contra bass
Nicolò Ricci - Tenor Saxophone
Alistair Payne - Trumpet