The HarmonicS - 1st Album [Boundless]

Two trailblazing artists from different fields—harmonicist Park Jong-seong and classical saxophonist Brandon Choi—have teamed up to create the project duo ensemble The Harmonics, releasing their debut album, Boundless. The ensemble of harmonica and saxophone is novel and bold, showcasing the unique musical tones of both instruments and the two artists’ shared spirit of exploration. The album title, Boundless, which means "to transcend boundaries," hints at their free-spirited musical journey that breaks genre and style barriers.

Though harmonica and saxophone both emerged in the 1840s and share nearly 200 years of history, they’ve often been met with prejudice and misconceptions on mainstream stages. Following in the footsteps of legendary musicians who forged paths for these instruments, Park and Choi have also expanded the musical potential of harmonica and classical saxophone through recitals, chamber music, orchestral collaborations, and premieres of new works, including commissions and first-time performances in Korea. In addition, they’ve committed to cultivating a lasting presence for these instruments through initiatives like founding orchestras, conducting, establishing academies and associations, engaging in international exchange, and recording albums.

This album features a diverse selection that bridges the familiar and the novel, spanning classical music, jazz, popular music, film scores, and contemporary pieces. The core trio includes harmonica, classical saxophone, and piano, with cello, guitar, and bass on select tracks, adding richness to the ensemble. "The harmonica offers a warm, lyrical, sometimes playful sound, while the classical saxophone is bold and dazzling, yet carries the softness and depth of a woodwind," note Park and Choi. The chemistry of these contrasting timbres across genres offers listeners a fresh auditory experience. A booklet provides insights from both musicians for each track, inviting listeners to connect deeply with each piece.

Boundless is a testament to the passion and adventurous spirit of these two musicians, a gift of innovation and musical joy that transcends boundaries to deliver unique harmonies and profound listening pleasure.

• TRACK LIST
01 The HarmonicS - 김재원
02 Trio for Viola, Alto sax and Piano, 1st mvt - Russell Peterson
03 Pavane Op.50 - Gabriel Faure
04 Kazabue - Oshima Michiru
05 The Good, the Bad and the Ugly - Ennio Morricone
06 La Cumparsita - Gerardo Matos Rodriguez
07 Sabre Dance - Aram Khachaturian
08 Libertango - Astor Piazzolla
09 얼음 연못 - 두 번째 달
10 걱정 말아요 그대 - 들국화
11 회상 - 산울림