ZY THE WAY‘s latest track, “Sun in the East” (東方之日), artfully blends classical Chinese literature with jazz, delivering a complex and textured sound. The song draws from the Classic of Poetry (Shijing 詩經), one of the oldest collections of Chinese poetry, dating from the 11th to the 7th centuries BC. It features 305 poems, including hymns and folk songs that reflect the life and beliefs of ancient China. The single focuses on a love poem that unfolds during daylight, diverging from its traditional nocturnal setting. Here, the celestial symbols of the sun and moon are not just markers of time but are poetically transformed to reflect the radiant qualities of love.

Featured on their recently released album, Then and Now (溯), which was released on 22 November, this piece continues ZY THE WAY’s commitment to reinterpreting historical Chinese poetry through the lens of jazz fusion. Based in Taipei, Taiwan, the ensemble infuses ancient lyrical narratives with fresh, contemporary rhythms and melodies, thus preserving and celebrating the profound cultural heritage that inspires their work.

In “Sun in the East,” the intricate arrangement includes vocals, piano, bass, and drums, featuring woodwind instruments and electronic effects that enhance the song’s storytelling impact.

You can explore the album and secure your copy HERE