On January 5, saxophonist Joe Longardner (Zhou Siwen)'s first album "pax lunaris" was released on multiple music platforms in mainland China.
joe longardner is from the United States and holds a PhD in jazz studies from the University of Illinois. He hopes to integrate artistry and professional knowledge into his music. Since coming to China in 2013, joe has found a new creative home here. After years of playing in jazz clubs and festivals across North America, Europe and Asia, he recently released his first album, pax lunaris. The band he formed for the album is composed of many outstanding Chinese musicians: trumpet Toby Mak, guitar Lawrence Ku, piano Huang Jianyi, bass Tian Xin, and drummer Yu Guojun, working together to create an infectious music picture.
's new album tells the story of Joe's various inspirations, especially his 10 years of living and performing in the vibrant China. Every note, every rhythm, every melody bears witness to the rich experiences and cultural influences that have shaped his musical journey.
joe also uses this album to express his deep love for his daughter Jayden, and those magical moments as a parent enriched him in an unprecedented way. Joe hopes to capture his daughter's innocence and imagination through music and incorporate this spirit into every song on the album.
's first song "j street" opens with a fashionable rhythm melody, paving the way for the entire album to unfold. As the song progresses, a bluesy saxophone melody gradually enters the solo stage, adding depth and emotion to the narrative. The song "pax lunaris" of the same name of the
album uses trombone and saxophone to interweave harmonious chorus and harmony. The music builds to a crescendo as the melody unfolds, culminating with a guitar solo. Afterwards, Joe came on stage with his saxophone, mapping out the soundscape of a quiet moonlit night.
As the end of the entire album, "Explorer" is a modern 3/4 time piece. The track starts with a slow and deliberate unison line lacking chords. The melody and arrangement create the feeling of walking through a narrow and winding street. The experience is like taking the listener on a musical adventure.
joe expressed his great honor to have shared the rich cultural history of jazz music with Chinese audiences at the U.S. Embassy. With the new album, he hopes to invite more Chinese listeners to join him and embark on an unforgettable musical journey with him.
Written and written by: Nandu reporter Zhong Xin, intern Zhu Wenhua
