Kwak YoonChan is a master of the Korean jazz scene, and the first Korean artist to be selected as an artist for the Blue Note and EmArCy labels. His musical talent spans a variety of genres, including classical, jazz, and film music, and he is exceptionally capable of reinterpreting familiar melodies in a new way.
The second track of Kwak YoonChan’s new album, “When You Study Upon a Star,” “To Human,” is a work that embodies Kwak YoonChan’s philosophy of connecting music theory and human nature, containing musical perfection and deep insight into humanity.
“To Human” expresses the imperfection of humans and the journey toward perfection through the relationship between the 6th and 7th notes. If the 6th note is an animalistic number, the 7th note symbolizes true breathing and perfection. However, interestingly, the reason why the chord of the sixth sounds more harmonious than the seventh is because the perfection of the seventh note has not yet been achieved.
Modern music, especially jazz, is composed around the seventh note. This reflects the human condition that we pursue perfection but can never reach. “To Human” is a work that musically expresses the process of moving from this imperfect state toward perfection.
When You Study Upon a Star is a work that simultaneously demonstrates Kwak YoonChan’s musical maturity and philosophical depth. Through “To Human,” listeners will have the opportunity to think about the mathematical structure of music and the essence of humanity. This piece delivers the message that we are not perfect, but we can find beauty even in our imperfections.
Kwak YoonChan’s new album is a work that is recommended not only to jazz fans, but also to anyone who wants to explore the deeper meaning of music and life. Through “To Human,” we will be able to experience the essence of humanity and the journey of growth expressed in the language of music.
