The music of Kang San-eh, an intimate mirror of the Korean soul
Kang San-eh expresses through his music a need to transmit a profound intimate writing and does so with a feroce vocal force. At the same time very close and respectful of the popular Korean traditions, he also stretches the boundaries of rock and contemporary influences to present an eclectic mix that is generalized as “Korean folk-rock”.
His first album (Laguyo) reunites the older and newer Korean generations through a pain theme, that of the division of the country. His second album, (Neon hal su isseo: “You can do it”) breathed courage and hope to those who had to endure the difficulties of the 90s. In his third album, (Pitagi), he hopes to lash out a critical message against the social chaos. In 1998, his fourth album (Yeonuh: “Salmon”), the salmon who swims upstream symbolizes the social countercurrents against the austere policies of the post IMF crisis (financial crisis). In the following albums, he references the folk songs of the 70s and 80s, where the Korean soul of an older and obsolete generation is revived. With traditional instruments, he embarks in a presenting a truly unique style.
On stage, he delivers a Korean explosive that can be felt by everyone regardless of age, from children to retirees. Thus, his concerts which include the participation of the spectators remain a true live experience that garners true public affection.
Off stage, he is engaged in supporting independent groups, searching thus to preserve the diversity of the Korean music against the stamping machine of mainstream commercial music.
Since 2003, he embarked on a tour throughout Asia to encounter musicians of diverse horizons: Chinese, Japanese, Philippines and Indians. He then participated in a documentary “Shout of Asia” which aired in Japan in April 2005. This event has led to active collaborations with numerous artists originating from all part of Asia.
The music of Kang San-eh transcends the divides of generations and cultures. It touches a timeless message that can extend far beyond Korea.
[discographie]
1992 Vol.0 Laguyo
1994 Vol.1 Nanun sachungi (I am a teenager)
1996 Vol.2 Pitagi
1998 Vol.3 Yeonuh (saumon)
1999 Vol.4 Haluachim – remake album
2001 Vol.5 Best Live
2002 Vol.6 Kang Young-gul
2008 Vol.7 Mulsugun (Wet towel)
2011 mini-album KISS
Photo Credits: Jemina Boraccino, Cyril Zannettacci, and images from “Pink” directed by Soo-il Jeon