textures by haana lee

*textures*, my first full-length album, is a gentle invitation into somatic listening and tender imperfection. The album consolidates the analog and digital sound design techniques I have been exploring over the last couple of years, principally using electric organs and keyboards as my raw sonic material to then add layer upon layer of textures (for lack of a better word) by improvising sound design on an intricate chain of effects pedals. The result is a unique array of micro polyrhythms and a pronounced stereo image inspired by the physical force of sound in space while performing live. I attempt to interpret the sound/body/space relationship of my background as a producer and DJ in electronic club scenes to a more restorative and intentional practice shared in spaces of reflection.

Personally, I’ve been changing a lot in my life to facilitate nervous system regulation and a closer, more somatic relationship to my body; similarly, this album signifies my artistic transition towards a more honest and intuitive creative process. I’ve allowed the tracks to take form organically, leaving in white noise, clicks, and other unplanned miscellaneous sounds, a playful response to the crisp and square perfection often found in electronic music. Each track contains a fraction of my first melodic compositions on the piano (an instrument I started to re-learn in the pandemic) - simple and unembellished melodies that have been deconstructed to leave more room for slow, dynamic changes in the sound design itself. The innocence of the melodies in this album is occasionally countered by the abrasiveness of the machines I work with (and the way I like to work with them) - harkening to the unavoidable discomfort, stress, and tenderness associated with (even the most positive of) major life changes.

Similar to the written instructions for experiencing to La Monte Young’s “The Well-Tuned Piano” on vinyl, I hope listeners will adjust the volume of their systems to accommodate the loudest parts of the album, and allow the quietest moments to intermingle with the surrounding sounds of each unique listening space. Other listening suggestions may include a nice stretch and the company of an animal friend. I hope that the fluctuation of sweetness and dissonance in the album can support a nourishing listening experience yet energetic awakening in those who experience it.

Instruments played on this album include:
Korg CX3
Yamaha BK5
Yamaha CP-30
Rhodes Mark 1
Harmonica
Upright piano

LA born, Bogotá based.

Exploring the introspective and corporeal possibilities of music, sound, silence, and space.

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