| Jazz |
Seulah Noh is a Korean-born composer, arranger, and conductor currently residing in Boston. She is set to release her album ‘NOhMAD’ in a few days, which undoubtedly reflects her own journey, much like the experience of any migrant who settles in the USA, the land of endless possibilities.
Seulah Noh studied jazz and composition at the renowned Berklee School, and this is evident in the meticulous craftsmanship of her compositions and arrangements. However, this album is exceptionally original, featuring beautiful vocal performances by Song Yi Jeon on tracks 1 and 9, and Astghik Martirosyan on track 3. Each track on the album showcases a diverse group of musicians, with a standout saxophonist, whose name I couldn’t find but whose talent shines particularly on the track ‘Hear The Lights.’
Each composition is like a painting, ultimately forming a kind of Jazz Opera from my perspective. It’s perhaps the best way for contemporary composers to bring together their inspirations and modernism while infusing a part of their culture into their work. The elegant use of brass instruments in these compositions is especially noteworthy, as is the melodic quality and musical phrases that lead the way. Seulah Noh is certainly a name to watch for in the years to come, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see her name associated with major film productions in the near future, as she has mastered the art of creating a musical narrative.
Her aesthetic form is uncompromising; Seulah Noh clearly did not take the easy route in composing these works. She has risen to the challenge of her ambition, which is remarkable. It’s worth noting that composers are becoming increasingly prominent in contemporary jazz, which is a positive development. Each composer brings their own unique qualities, vulnerabilities, and profound approaches to the table. This is something that resonates with me and that I deeply respect. Composers are often the unsung heroes, those who are noticed less unless you are a musician or have a keen interest in this category of artists. I was not familiar with Seulah Noh before, and I am delighted to discover her universe. This album deserves your full attention and a careful listen. The beauty of the work will touch you as much as the excellence of the artists featured on this album. It naturally falls into the category of ‘Essential’ according to the editorial teams of Bayou Blue Radio and Paris-Move.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, September 20th 2023
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Tracklisting:
1. L’illusionniste (feat. Song Yi Jeon) 08:11
2. Arrogant or Elegant 06:38
3. Hear the Light (feat. Astghik Martirosyan) 08:56
4. Heartsong 06:52
5. Traveler’s Suite : I. 6829 Miles 07:23
6. Traveler’s Suite : II. A Letter From Me 05:55
7. Traveler’s Suite : III. Sail at Dawn 07:44
8. Have You Heard (feat. Kan Yanabe) 07:55
9. L’illusionniste (Alternate Take) 08:15