DOO SOO, KIM - Free Spirit

This is the 2002 fourth album by Koreas true cult folk/singer-songwriter hero, Kim Doo Soo. Kim Doo Soo is perhaps the deepest and most introspective of Koreas acid folk singers. Legends surround his songs -- political oppression, alcoholism, suicide, a 10-year period of mountain seclusion. In spite of four acclaimed albums in Korea, most Western listeners only became aware of Kim through his tracks on Damon & Naomis compilation International Sad Hits Volume One: Altaic Language Group. On Free Spirit he mines productive veins of profound melancholy, animistic nature, and unfathomable, hermetic affection. These songs are couched in a veil of gorgeous, still melodicism, Kims quavering vocals and guitar shaded with subtle accordion, cello, organ and harmonica. A reflective and unearthly masterpiece. Housed in a digipak, including a 19-page booklet with lyrics in Korean and photos. - Riverman Music.