MUTE - After You've Gone (2024) [Hi-Res]

The awaited second offering from the esteemed Asian-American jazz ensemble, Mute, is on the horizon with the impending release of their sophomore album, "After You've Gone." This much-anticipated collection not only reaffirms the band's status as a prominent force within the contemporary jazz scene but also serves as a testament to their exceptional musical versatility and the seamless camaraderie that defines their collective sound.

Mute initially made waves in 2019 with their self-titled debut album, which garnered widespread critical acclaim. This release not only solidified their presence in the ever-evolving landscape of jazz, but also positioned them as a musical force to be reckoned with. The album was praised for its groundbreaking approach, earning recognition from influential voices like Jackson Sinnenberg of DownBeat, who awarded the record four stars and wrote that it "...makes the case—and provides a robust blueprint—for a postmodern jazz."

‘After You've Gone' stands as a testament to the band’s growth, capturing the essence of Mute’s tight-knit chemistry and showcasing a broad musical range. The album not only meets the standard of their well-received debut but also propels them further into the realm of innovative and boundary-pushing jazz. Mute's sophomore release promises an immersive and captivating auditory journey for both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

This release grants listeners a nuanced perspective on the group's growth and transformation. “I hope listeners will appreciate the development of the band chemistry in this second album. We're all good friends and can be brutally honest with each other, and we're not scared to take risks and let things get messy in pursuit of joy and shared discovery” says Sun. The camaraderie is palpable throughout the recording, with bassist Yang adding, “Our motivation stems from the natural process and energy of us working together, which the listener can feel through the music. There is no ego or strong demands within our music, so it creates an organic and natural ensemble.”

With a fusion of innovative arrangements and diverse musical explorations, the ensemble navigates through the realms of jazz, paying homage to the greats while carving out their unique sound. This release invites listeners to witness the maturation of Mute's chemistry while offering a glimpse into the genuine and organic essence that defines their musical journey. Get ready to embark on an immersive sonic adventure with "After You've Gone."

Kevin Sun ⋅ C melody saxophone, clarinet, and suona
Christian Li ⋅ piano
Jeonglim Yang ⋅ bass
Dayeon Seok ⋅ drums

1.01 - MUTE - After You've Gone (3:06)
1.02 - MUTE - Reaganomics (5:48)
1.03 - MUTE - Taepyeongso Blues (2:26)
1.04 - MUTE - China Boy (Part I) (2:50)
1.05 - MUTE - China Boy (Part II) (6:07)
1.06 - MUTE - Not My Blues (5:52)
1.07 - MUTE - Origin Story (5:40)
1.08 - MUTE - Two Way Mirror (5:25)
1.09 - MUTE - After You've Gone (Reprise) (3:14)