The SmackSoft sound defies easy categorization. Known as “Whang Bo Ryung = SmackSoft” in Korea, SmackSoft is among the first wave of independent artists and musicians that reach beyond borders of nationality while still being influenced by traditional Korean music and culture. SmackSoft’s dynamic presence and creative risk-taking creates a visceral connection between the music and their listeners.
“Seoul art rockers SmackSoft have been tipped for greatness in 2011, yet singer Whang Bo-Ryung has long been ahead of the game.” – Dave Candler, Korean Homesick Blues
Bo Ryung Whang is an accomplished artist from Brooklyn, NY, and a veteran singer/songwriter. Bo’s first solo studio album “Cat with three Ears” (1998) and the second solo studio album “The Sun Sign” (2001) are iconic emblems of the South Korea’s first wave of indie music. After a seven-year hiatus, during which Bo traveled and studied, she returned to Korea and formed the band SmackSoft. The group released “SmackSoft 2.5″ (2008), awarded the 2008 Album of the Year in Korea. Guided by the personal of vision of its band leader, the following year SmackSoft released their third studio album “Shines in the Dark”(2009) nominated the best album of the year. In 2010, the release of their fourth studio album “Mana Wind” further explored the “creation of layered canvases of sound” and “moved beyond technical experimentation to focus on the spiritual depth” of SmackSoft’s original music. “Mana Wind” has won high praise from the critics in Korea and abroad. SmackSoft is based in Seoul, South Korea, and the group has plans to tour the UK and United States.
Seung Hyeon Yang_Guitar
Whang, Bo Ryung _Vocal, Guitar
DeAnthony Nelson Jr._Drums
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