Apart from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the bustling city of San Francisco is also known for its diverse culture of music. Alt-rock band Keepers of Humanity, with their unique blend of piano-forward melodies and blazing lyrics is all set to launch their new EP, to make waves in this music. Pansori, their second studio EP, is a five-track gem, likely to set a new standard in the West Coast music scene as it invites listeners on a mesmerizing cultural journey.
Pansori by Keepers of Humanity is a musical saga promising a transcendental experience into culture. Produced by the talented Mat Gilbert at Rockstone Records, the EP is scheduled for release on October 6 and will be available across all major streaming platforms. Pansori offers a thoughtful collection of songs that delve into the core of human existence. It is based on themes like familial roots, finding solace in love, and the pressure to fulfill parental expectations.
The title of the EP, Pansori, is inspired by the ancient Korean art of rhythmic storytelling, and all the song aptly justifies this art. The five epic tracks of the EP explore different facets of human life right from one’s chaotic journey through adolescence to the profound challenges of adulthood and eventually highlight the redemption in parenthood.
In the highly competitive realm of Alt-rock music, Pansori stands out for its eclectic mix of genres that keeps listeners hooked to the rhythm. The musical medley has everything from psych, and blues to metal, punk, and even elements of classical music. It is not just an EP but a journey through emotions and genres for the listeners. The opening track of Pansori is a treat for Keepers of Humanity fans.
"Intersection," is a re-recording of the closing track from the brand’s 2019 album "Freedom in the Chaos”. This instantly brings a touch of nostalgia. Mat Gilbert's distinctive production style adds a punch, sizzle, and polish to the song that reverberates throughout the EP. The vibe is further accentuated by Jean Nanjo's sweet, girl-next-door vocals, Steven Bonaccorso's guitar riffs, and Rudy Choy's bass lines.
The second track of the EP, "No Greater," highlights the inner torment of a person who is living a lie without any means of escape. Nanjo's vocals added an ethereal essence to the mood of the song, creating a hauntingly beautiful portrayal of despair. The song culminates in a powerful piano solo.
"Pansori," the title track of the EP is a masterpiece offering a captivating juxtaposition of two vocal parts beyond timelines. The song blends traditional Korean pansori-style vocals with contemporary English lyrics that feel like magic to the ears. The male vocals for this track are performed by Nanjo's father, Ik Shin, who added a personal touch to the song.
"Cosmic Mind," is the fourth track of the EP that takes the listeners on a momentary escape from the intensity of the previous songs. It is both whimsical and experimental. Driven by Nanjo's classical piano, which is perfectly complemented by relentless percussion and guitar riffs, the song sets a different mood while staying true to the overall soul of the EP. Pansori concludes with "Fantasy at Daybreak”, a soothing track of love that blurs out the fine line between reality and dreams, leaving listeners craving for more.
Keepers of Humanity's Pansori is a cultural journey through emotions. It also showcases the band's artistic evolution in the realm of Alt-rock. As the EP drops on October 6, it promises an enchanting journey through music inviting listeners to connect on an intimate level with the band's ethos. For every music lover who not only enjoys foot-tapping notes but also loves to connect with the lyrics, Pansori is a must-listen.
-SF Weekly, 10/9/1023
https://www.sfweekly.com/townnews/musical_instruments/keepers-of-humanity-take-listeners-on-cultural-journey-in-new-ep/article_f4d4cc92-66c1-11ee-b08f-8b2199476a69.html
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