Choi Hang-seok and Boogie Monster Announce Fourth Full Album 'Human Scramble'
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- South Korean blues band Choi Hang-seok and Boogie Monster will release their fourth full-length album, 'Human Scramble,' on July 3.
- The album explores the complexities of human relationships, with themes of despair, love, and gratitude, ultimately aiming to offer comfort and hope.
- It features 10 tracks, including the title song 'Dead End,' recorded in a live, one-take session, and collaborations with American musicians and producers.
Choi Hang-seok and Boogie Monster, a prominent South Korean blues band, are set to release their fourth full-length album, 'Human Scramble,' on July 3. This release marks their first full album in five years, following their 2021 work 'Budungbudung.' The new album delves into the intricate emotions of human relationships experienced by the band members in recent years, all interpreted through the lens of blues music.
The album's title, 'Human Scramble,' signifies the tangled and intertwined nature of human connections. While the songs explore moments of despair, hatred, love, and gratitude in daily life, the overarching message is one of comfort and hope. The album cover features a painting of the same name by artist Lee Ho-seop, visually representing the complex web of human interactions.
We tried to express the joys and sorrows that arise from various human relationships. We included diverse stories of despair, hatred, and love, but ultimately, we wanted to convey a message of hope and gratitude. We hope this album brings a little comfort and help to life.
'Human Scramble' includes ten tracks, with the title song 'Dead End' being a highlight. This track was recorded live in a single take by all band members to capture the raw tension and breath of their performance. Other songs like 'Love's Swamp' and 'Love Song Blues' draw inspiration from New Orleans brass sounds blended with Korean sentiment, while tracks such as 'Diabetes,' 'Vegan Boy,' and 'Cheeseburger Blues' offer humorous takes on food, health, and daily life through blues.
Part of the album's production took place at the Royal Studios in Memphis, USA. Grammy-winning producer Boo Mitchell handled some of the recording and mixing, with American Boogie Monster members Rick Short, Danny Williams, and Federico Samuel contributing their performances. The band expressed their intention to convey a message of hope and gratitude, hoping the album provides solace and support to listeners navigating life's complexities.
A magical album that transforms daily melancholy into the strength to endure life. It's a work that pays homage through blues to the lives of ordinary people enduring each day amidst the world's storms.
Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.