K-POP

I posted two bands, ‘SingSing’ and ‘LeeNalchi’, which were formed by music director YoungGyu Jang. He is passionate about mixing traditional music with modern rock band music. While I was searching for his music, the YouTube algorithm led me to a new mixed world, ‘AkDanGwangChil-ADG7’, which defines their genre as ‘Korean Shamanic Funk’. They were formed as a project band to celebrate 70 years of independence. However, their iconic performances have captured the public’s attention, especially global listeners, and their main members continue to perform together.   

First impression

The first performance that caught my eye is ‘YoungJeoungGeoRi’ (Shamanic performance for the deceased). It captured my attention with its distinctive performance. YoungGyu Jang mixes music based on modern rock and adds traditional singing, drawing from his background as a bassist in an independent rock band. However, ‘ADG7’ reinterprets traditional music to modernize it. This means they maintain the roots of traditional music but incorporate modern musical elements. For example, ADG7 uses traditional rhythms and instruments whenever possible. The original version typically features a single vocalist, accompanied by percussion instruments like the drum, Jing (similar to cymbals), Janggu, and Ggaenggwari. However, the vocal parts are divided among three people in ADG7, creating a smoother vocal line. All the instrumentalists are trained in traditional instruments, but they sometimes incorporate modern instruments to match the song’s style. This subtle difference sets ADG7 apart from YoungGyu Jang’s project band. 

SeoDo MinYo based

Because their musics are based on Seodo MinYo,like as HwanghaeDo gut(shamanic performance in Hwanghae province), almost every song has a slightly gloomy melody despite the glamorous performance. Additionally, they jump up and down in one spot while singing, evoking imagery of shamans dancing on knives while possessed by spirits. It’s a literal embodiment of ‘SinMyeongNaDa’ (a delightful and exciting feeling as if the gods are incarnate in their bodies), captivating our spirits.

Iconic mix match

Every time I watch their performance, it feels like a children’s talent show at first, mainly because of their costumes and vocals. Their outfits are modernized versions of traditional Korean attire, transformed with vivid colors like yellow, red, and blue. Despite all the vocalists being women, they wear traditional Korean hats designed for men, creating a unique mix of cute dresses with manly hats that leave a lasting impression on the audience.

At last! I leave original ‘YoungJeongGeoRi’ here