ZY THE WAY Announces Debut Album Then And Now: Bridging Ancient Chinese Poetry and Contemporary Jazz

In a groundbreaking fusion of cultural heritage and modern artistry, the innovative jazz ensemble ZY THE WAY is set to release their highly anticipated debut full-length album, Then And Now. This album reimagines the boundaries of music and storytelling, blending ancient Chinese poetry with the dynamic sounds of contemporary jazz, global influences, and improvisation.

A Cultural Odyssey Through Music

Based in Taipei, ZY THE WAY leads a new era of musical innovation. Their work transforms the ancient verses of the Book of Songs (Shijing 詩經), a cornerstone of Chinese literary tradition compiled nearly 3,000 years ago, into vibrant modern compositions. The band’s debut EP, A Different Destiny, earned critical acclaim, including a 3.5-star review from Downbeat Magazine and accolades in Australia and Taiwan. With Then And Now, the group reaches new creative heights, bridging millennia of tradition and contemporary expression.

Revitalizing the Shijing 詩經

Then And Now draws inspiration from the Book of Songs (Shijing 詩經), an anthology from China’s Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE). Regarded as the oldest and most revered collection of Chinese poetry, the Shijing offers profound insights into early Chinese society’s cultural, social, and spiritual life.

In collaboration with Dr. Annie Luman Ren, an award-winning translator and classical Chinese scholar, ZY THE WAY brings these ancient texts to life for modern audiences. This partnership deepens global understanding of these historical works while empowering the band to create jazz compositions that honor their essence, combining traditional scholarship with innovative artistry.

Track Highlights and Context

1. Sun In The East (東方之日)
   Evoking celestial imagery, this track explores the fleeting beauty of romantic encounters and the ephemeral nature of love.

2. Then And Now (權輿)
   Reflecting on contrasts between a glorious past and present challenges, this piece offers commentary on the cyclical nature of prosperity and change.

3. Agile (還)
   Celebrating the exhilaration of hunting, this song underscores its cultural and ceremonial significance in ancient Chinese society.

4. Wild Winds (終風)
   Attributed to China’s first female poet, Zhuang Jiang, this melancholic poem delves into emotional turbulence, connecting weather and personal suffering.

5. Wedding Night (綢繆)
   A celebratory piece highlighting the transformative and ceremonial beauty of marriage.

6. Ten Acres (十畝之間)
   A tribute to rural life, portraying harmony between work and leisure while celebrating agrarian simplicity.

7. A Hermit’s Hut (考槃)
   Inspired by Daoist philosophy, this track reflects on the peace of nature and spiritual fulfillment through solitude.

8. Blue Collar (子衿)
   Exploring themes of longing and separation, this piece connects ancient sentiments with modern audiences.

About ZY THE WAY

Since forming in 2019 in Taipei, Taiwan, ZY THE WAY has trailblazed by merging the Shijing’s ancient poetry with contemporary jazz improvisation and innovative sounds. The group celebrates the Chinese diaspora’s cultural heritage, reinterpreting 3,000-year-old literary masterpieces with fresh energy. Their multimedia approach, including live poetry readings and visual elements, creates an immersive audience experience.

Renowned for their originality, ZY THE WAY’s music blends memorable melodies with strong grooves, bridging the sophistication of jazz and Western classical music. Their compositions invite listeners into a profound yet accessible musical journey, transcending cultural boundaries.

With Then And Now, ZY THE WAY promises an unforgettable experience that honors the past while resonating deeply with today’s global audience.