Spring Break
A combination of flavor
Bing Ji Ling releases new EP
Sarah Kay Hannon
Issue date: 3/5/08 Section: Features
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The only disappointment is that this is not a full-length album. Each song has a smooth flow that is sure to please the listeners ear. As soon as the first track "Kathalina" starts, a craving to get up and dance kicks in. Once track two, the title track, plays that craving must turn into an action for the listener to be able to stay sane. By the time track five comes around, the dancing is sure to turn into a party.
Even his lyrics are appetizing and addicting with lines like "Kathalina, when are we going to be together? I know we just met, but I'm pretty sure of it," and also, "now I realize we are only who we choose to be." These creative lyrics mixed together with Bing Ji Ling's calming voice and continuous, repetitive beats are sure to hit the spot of just about any chill music fan.
Categorizing Ling into the genre of jazz and blues is a way to put him lightly. Influenced by America's favorite dessert and the female gender, Ling carries a unique sound that is almost like building an ice cream sundae and adding every topping: reggae, up-beat tempo, smooth jazz and even a bit of folk come into mind as his sound might remind some of Bob Marley, Ben Harper and Jason Mraz. Top it off with a hint of some hip alt/indie and Ling has been created.
Even in this world where it might seem as if everything in music has already been done, this 36-year-old talent has figured out a way to still bring out a sound unlike any other. This is only the second release for Ling, but he is taking a step in the right direction toward success. Ling is currently on tour with dates in Texas, Florida, New York and will be playing at 12 Galaxies in San Francisco on Friday.
Sarah Kay Hannon can be reached at skhannon@statehornet.com
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