The Earthy Suites
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The Berlin vocalist and composer Song Yi Jeon is joined by many esteemed players for 3 detailed tracks that are rooted in Korean percussion, modern jazz sensibilities and no lack of improvisation.
“Seya Seya (Korean Folk Song)” opens with the harmonic voices layered with warmth and Fabio Gouvea’s radiant guitar playing as the tunes builds into a busy, powerful execution.
In the middle, “Suite One”, which is the longest track at 21+ minutes, blends the pair of saxophones and trombones amid Marton Juhasz’s thumping drums and playful scatting that never out welcomes its stay.
“Suite Two” exits, and allows for Yi Jeon’s intimate and expressive voice to captivate us alongside effects and, eventually, lively drums, Oberto Koch’s meticulous bass and Noé Sécula strategic keys.
The 9 piece ensemble are in fine form here, and help illuminate Yi Jeon’s artistic spirit across this harmonic, rhythmic and forward thinking adventure.
Travels well with: Jason Miles- Cosmopolitan; Manuel Bienvenu- oh do we