Similar & Different

Dal:um are a Korean duo deploying two ‘similar yet different’ traditional instruments in a contemporary context. Both instruments are plucked zithers: the geomungo is akin in tone to a bass while Ha Suyean’s gayageum is more harp-like. Hwang Hyeyoung plays the deeper instrument percussively too, raking the bamboo plectrum across the wooden frets to provoke an atmospheric rattle.

The two women met in a traditional music ensemble but formed Dal:um to explore modern musical impulses. The resulting record is strikingly confident. Opener ‘Dasreum’ boldly withholds the first strike of a string for nearly two minutes, underscoring the group’s philosophy of ‘not filling blank spaces rashly.’ The pitch-bends and rhythmic twangs of ‘TAL’ have a bluesy quality that recalls Ry Cooder & Ali Farka Touré’s seminal duet Talking Timbuktu. Each tune is chameleonic. Moods are established then swiftly evolved. Mid-song moments of quiet are embraced as transitions. ‘The Waves’ provides one of the most enduring and beautiful melodies, harmonised by both instruments over a weightless waltz-like feel. Similar & Different is a deep and distinctive debut album from a hugely promising duo.