Album Introduction
As Dou Wei's first solo work in nearly six years, the most obvious feature of "Ba Duan Jin" is the absence of those uncertain musicians. In terms of musical expression, Dou Wei's unique personal style emerges more completely. In fact, friends who are familiar with music should understand that since Dou Wei published many albums after "Shan He Shui," such as "Huan Ting," "Yu Xu," and up to the recent "Two Sides of Perfection" and "Three Kingdoms Four Records," these works have all left more or less the imprints of the Yi Band and "uncertainty." This series of works not only conveyed Dou Wei's musical thoughts but also showcased the highest technical level of Chinese musicians. In the two albums "Mu Liang Wen Wang" and "Jing Hua Yuan" with a strong classical folk music flavor, the musicians' performances greatly enhanced the musical value of the works. This time, Dou Wei has basically rid himself of the ethereal celestial music detached from worldly affairs and returned to a style closer to life during the "Yan Yang Tian" and "Jiang Shan Shui" era. The only difference is that this time female vocals replaced Dou Wei's early dream-like humming. However, I have long been accustomed to Dou Wei's music; whether he sings or remains silent, or whether there are lyrics or not, it no longer matters.
The music of "Ba Duan Jin" carries a strong sense of storytelling, yet you can never quite explain what story it wants to tell. It seems close to events around us, yet distant like images deep in memory. This reminds me of Dou Wei's feeling in the "Shan He Shui" era; at that time, Dou Wei had already transcended the nature depicted in "Hei Meng" and "Yan Yang Tian," and cities, people, and life had gradually become landscapes in his music.
"Ba Duan Jin" is clearly different from Dou Wei's recent collaborations with musicians, conforming more to Dou Wei's own style. A completely self-composed method, combined with electronic sound effects, creates an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility. The opening track "An Zao Guang Yang" is serene and elegant, just like a ray of morning light slowly spreading across the garden; "Ban Yuan Cao" emits a mysterious and fragrant aroma, while the closing parts "Zhao Deng Yu Lu" and "Nian" and "Zao An Yang Guang" feature soft female singing, reminiscent of Dou Wei's murmurs in "Shan He Shui." Notably worth mentioning is a set of MIDI-produced music segments by Zhang Yadong: "Shi Yi Qing," "Liu Yi Er," "Wu Yi You," and "Ba Yi Dui Zheng Bu." These four miniatures bring a sense of comfort, making Dou Wei's music seem simple and easy to understand. You don't need to ponder deeply on its meaning; just relax your mind following the beautiful melody and gentle rhythm, enjoying the ups and downs and the delightful, warm MIDI sound effects continuously appearing in the music. I believe you will definitely smile knowingly.
Even though many people think Dou Wei's music is esoteric and exclusive, I still feel that Dou Wei is close to life. His musical expression is indeed profound and unfathomable, but in essence, he just wants to depict the happiness he feels, a simple happiness found in ordinary daily life. I think Dou Wei's life might be just that simple.
Tracklist:
1. An Zao Guang Yang
2. Ban Yuan Cao
3. Shi Yi Qing 1995
4. Liu Yi Er 1995
5. Wu Yi You 1995
6. Ba Yi Dui Zheng Bu 1995
7. Zhao Deng Yu Lu
8. Nian
9. Yang Guang Chen An