Sun-Mi Hong, a South Korean drummer based in Amsterdam, has emerged as a rising star in the vibrant jazz scene of the Dutch capital. Renowned for her boundless creativity and infectious energy, Sun-Mi has established herself as a force to be reckoned with. Her accolades include winning the SENA Dutch Jazz Competition in 2018 and receiving the prestigious Edison Award in the National category for her critically acclaimed album ‘A Self-Strewn Portrait’ released by ZenneZ Records.
With her latest album and collaboration with Edition Records, Sun-Mi fulfills a lifelong dream of expressing herself through drumming and composition. Her music is a powerful conduit for a wide range of emotions, delivering heartfelt performances that can cry, shout, and embrace. The opportunity to work with Edition Records is a tremendous honor for Sun-Mi, aligning her aspirations with a respected label.
Established in 2012 and officially formed in 2017, Sun-Mi’s longstanding quintet showcases a harmonious blend of original compositions and fearless explorations into the realm of improvised music. With their collective musical prowess, they constantly challenge boundaries and venture into uncharted sonic territories.
Sun-Mi’s journey in music has been marked by remarkable achievements. Overcoming challenges and negativity in her upbringing, she found solace in drumming, which soon became her passion and a source of inspiration. Pursuing her dreams amidst criticism and pressure to conform, Sun-Mi took a leap of faith by relocating to Amsterdam over a decade ago. This bold move paid off, as she quickly gained recognition in the city and beyond, solidifying her position as one of the most promising talents in European jazz.
Her latest album, ‘Third Page: Resonance,’ with her quintet, masterfully balances meticulously crafted compositions with exhilarating explorations into the realm of improvisation. Each release from the quintet, including ‘First’ and ‘Second,’ offers a unique window into Sun-Mi’s artistic journey and unwavering pursuit of her goals.
Within ‘Third Page: Resonance,’ the music effortlessly traverses expressions of warmth, appreciation, and moments of pure passion and catharsis. This captivating album demands attentive listening, taking listeners on an immersive sonic journey unlike anything they have experienced before.
Sun-Mi Hong’s story is one of triumph, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. As a drummer and composer, she captivates audiences with her infectious energy and pushes the boundaries of jazz while remaining true to her roots. Her music transcends borders, evoking a wide range of emotions and transporting listeners to a captivating sonic landscape. With each release, Sun-Mi Hong continues to forge her own path, leaving an indelible mark on the world of jazz.
Alistair Payne - Trumpet
Nicolò Ricci - Tenor saxophone
Chaerin Im - Piano
Alessandro Fongaor - Bass
Sun-Mi Hong - Drums & Compositions