Jo-Yu Chen - Stranger (2014)

All of the pieces on this album were composed by me, except for "Happy New Year," which is a Chinese traditional song. These compositions were inspired by specific transitions and events in my life. Each track on this album has its own character and sound. I feel eternally grateful for the opportunity to continue recording and working with musicians whom I admire. The creation of this album has been an amazing experience for me, and it has certainly contributed to my personal growth.

The title of this album refers to two different types of strangers: the people who once were strangers that have slowly walked into my life, and those people who were close to me in the past that became strangers over time. Aside from these definitions, 'Stranger' can also mean other things. As a Taiwanese musician based in New York City, I have been a minority in the USA for years. During this time I have often felt like a stranger everywhere I go.

All compositions written by Jo-Yu Chen (except Happy New Year)
Jo-Yu Chen, piano
Christopher Tordini, bass
Tommy Crane, drums
Kurt Rosenwinkel, guitar (3, 6, 10)