“Words You Can Believe In” from Another Rising Sun by Jon Chi
Give a listen to Jon Chi, I guarantee that you will be hearing his name and talking about his music for years to come…
JON CHI TO RELEASE ANOTHER RISING SUN (Press Release)
A blend of folk, gospel and jam with honest songwriting and lyrics at the forefront (May 5, 2015)
Boston, MA March 2015–What stands out about Jon Chi’s new album, Another Rising Sun is its honesty–He has created a body of stunning music and lyrics that were created from personal experience. “The songs come first,” said the musician, “It’s the most important thing to me.” This is evident in the skill and attention that was put into the songs. ““I enjoy blending vintage sounds with (hopefully) my own perspective and sometimes a more modern twist, but in the end it’s real people putting their hands on instruments working together to tell the story.”
Another Rising Sun is Chi’s 2nd solo effort as a musician. It was recorded in Milwaukee, WI at Third Ward Records – in collaboration with Chi’s good friend Ken Krei. Back dropping the record are Milwaukee gospel singers; Tasha Nicole, Khalia Hampton, Daryl Tucker, Tiffany Bufford, and Latrice Armon. The Regiment Horns (Booker T, Justin Timberlake, Mary J. Blige) and players include: John Calarco drums (Tori Amos), John Wesley McVicker drums (Michael Franti, Shelia E), Sean Erick and Leon Silva – horns (Booker T and the MGs, Alabama Shakes, Mary J Blige), Jason Rhodes added some great guitar on “Killer from Our Hometown” and “Call to Me”. and Tyler Famulora added some slide on “The End of the Road”, Afton Johnson -bass (Eric Benet) with Daryl Tucker and Theo Merriweather on keys.
Another Rising Sun incorporates more Americana influence and a note of hopefulness. Where his 1st record, Just For Now was written and recorded as his father fell ill and passed away, Another Rising Sun was written as his son was about to be born. “I’m often inspired by Americana music and sounds from the past, but I hope to put my own stamp on it”, he continues, “The main thing that I draw from great Americana songs is a certain emotional honesty. Some classic, specific lyrics – whiskey, trains, and guns are often mentioned – may not resonate with me personally. But honesty does. I’m a half-Korean guy who grew up in a Mill Town and I recorded this record with Gospel musicians from the West Side of Milwaukee. That’s where my American experience is right now. I hope it comes across as honestly as the emotions on some of my favorite Americana records.”
The record kicks off with “Words You Can Believe In” a song incorporating gospel vocals, synth and an Enricco Morricone-spaghetti western inspired solo section. The song was written about a near-fatal illness that was a turning point for Chi and when he decided to dedicate his life to music. The lyrics tell his story–“I was born to chase the sun, even when night devours the day. But I was raised to take the rain, so I won’t go down this way.”
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