A Gathering by The Jac

'A Gathering' is The Jac's third studio album, made up of compositions directly drawn from, and inspired by, their 2017 collaboration with South Korean traditional/jazz fusion group, Black String.

The opening and closing titles were both commissioned by the Wellington Jazz Festival for this collaboration, and both draw on "jangdan" (literally "long-short"), rhythmic phrases which are the foundation of Korean traditional music.

Beyond the Palace was inspired by a visit to a Korean palace in Seoul, during a research trip for the project in December 2016. On exiting the complex, the composers witnessed the largest of the "Candlelight Demonstrations" - protests against then-president, Park Geun-hye, over corruption allegations. The protest swelled to 2.3 million people, and less than a week later, Park was impeached, and was eventually removed from office. The long, stately opening builds to a furious declaration, then gives way to a more measured, but ultimately triumphant, denouement.

Lullaby (MV Sewol) is a ballad written in memory of the victims of the M.V Sewol ferry sinking in 2014 – a tragic event that sparked widespread social and political reaction within South Korea. It is a simple, peaceful melody written in tribute to those affected.

Tūī's playful, dancing theme is a nod to both the folk music of Korea and the local birdlife of Newtown, where it was written. Tui, piwakawaka, riroriro, and tauhou are all frequent visitors to the lemon tree that stands outside the studio window where the song was composed.

Ritual was written with the ancient, royal and mystical elements of Korean folklore in mind. From the imposing opening theme to the regal horn chorale, the music evokes the customs of the court and the rituals of the shaman. Composer Daniel Millward was very much inspired by the rich tradition that was encountered not only in his time and journeys in Korea, but also within his own Asian heritage, and tried to find a way to blend these elements with more modern influences.

A Gathering represents the kaupapa of the project and the group as a whole: a coming together in the celebration of different peoples, traditions, practices and musics. It's full title might be "A Gathering of Souls." Traditional rhythms underpin rich and lush harmonies throughout, building slowly to a joyful conclusion that composer Callum Allardice describes as the collective consciousness, encapsulating The Jac's own sound with the spirit of Korea and their musical encounters there over this four year journey.

A Gathering was a critical success before it was even released: 'Beyond the Palace' and 'A Gathering' were nominated for the APRA NZ Best Jazz Composition of the Year award in 2018 and 'Tūī' won the same award this year

The Jac is a modern jazz octet from Aotearoa/New Zealand.