DONGYANG GOZUPA
Inspired by bands including Rush, this Korean instrumental trio aim to bring K-prog to a global audience.
Describing themselves as “the gap between East and West,” Seoul’s instrumental trio Dongyang Gozupa merge traditional Korean music with prog approaches to percussionbased music. Eunhwa Yun leads the charge with his custom version of the traditional hammer-striking-strings instrument, the yanggeum, supported by bassist Minhwi Ham and percussionist Dohyuk Jang.
Just like one of their main Western influences, Rush, the band strive to have fun. “There’s nothing more exciting than coming together to create music and perform,” says Jang. “The process of finding the perfect musical complement to each other’s playing – or creating a musical narrative by experimenting with different tones – bring us so much joy.”
In South Korea’s small prog scene, the genre’s artists co-operate to build interest. “There are government programs that support young musicians,” says Jang, “such as subsidising the cost of practice and rehearsal spaces. And collaborating with the traditional music and
K-pop genres makes it easier to receive subsidies. Prog bands gather to hold small club festivals.”
Dongyang Gozupa’s high-energy performances have attracted worldwide interest. “All three of our instruments are rhythm instruments that perform by producing dots,” adds Yun. “We aim to connect these dots to create lines. This is probably why we perform diligently at such a ferocious speed, creating lots of noise. Our audience is able to see our dripping sweat and laboured breathing!”
Jang describes their new, second album Kyul as their latest “calling card” and an arrow to their future: “Kyul is both a conclusion and a new beginning. Our wish is that it’s an album of hope for people – one that carries the expectation that Dongyang Gozupa will always create fun and wonderful things.” UK audiences can witness the fun, the dripping sweat and laboured breathing when the trio tour England from October 29, closing with an appearance at the K-Music Festival at London’s Southbank Centre on November 2.
“Korea has government programs for young musicians.”