Sincerely one of the most forward thinking, progressive, and genre-expansive works we’ve heard in quite some time, everything about S’yo Fang’s newest record I Prefer is divine. Read on as we take a closer look into the record, as well as a background on this artist.

S’yo Fang’s latest album, I Prefer, is an exquisite and deeply personal musical journey that marries the complexities of modern classical and contemporary jazz to produce a seamless soundscape. The album is a testament to S’yo’s prowess as a Taiwanese-Dutch pianist, composer, and arranger, as he balances improvisation and composition with a deft hand, creating an accessible medium that immerses the audience in a range of human emotions. It’s something we overwhelmingly recommend for everyone to get into.

At the core of I Prefer is S’yo’s embrace of contemporary poetry, as he seeks to stretch the boundaries of musical genres to create a work that profoundly communicates with the emotions of the listener. Through the use of “spoken word, multi-language, free improvisation, or entirely composed paragraphs”, S’yo creates a sonic texture that accentuates and complements the accompanying poetry collection, “In Between the Whispers,” by Chou Meng-tieh.

What sets I Prefer apart is the manner in which S’yo combines different musical styles, as well as his ability to create a unique sound that transcends genres. The album’s opening track, “Abnormal Love I,” sets the tone for the rest of the album, showcasing S’yo’s mastery of the piano and his unique blend of classical and jazz styles. It’s really an ideal opener that lets the listener know exactly what they’re going to experience, to a fault.

Throughout the album, S’yo’s playing is nuanced and deeply expressive, evoking a wide range of emotions. The title track, “I Prefer,” is a standout at 11 minutes, with its upbeat tempo and jaunty melody, which belies the complexity of the arrangement. Throughout the record though, you’ll take a deep dive through contemplative and introspective pieces as well, showing off S’yo’s ability to evoke complex emotions through his playing, while “In A Nanosecond” is a stunningly beautiful piece that showcases S’yo’s mastery of the piano.

One of the most striking aspects of I Prefer is S’yo’s ability to create a cohesive musical journey that feels both personal and universal. The album is a testament to S’yo’s talent as a composer and arranger, as well as his ability to create a work that is both deeply emotional and highly accessible. Overall, I Prefer is a must-listen for anyone looking for a unique and powerful musical experience. Listen closely by clicking those links below and don’t forget to follow along in order to stay tuned for all major updates too.Listen to I Prefer

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S'yo Fang goes above & beyond on multi-genre album experience, "I Prefer"