yonglee & the DOLTANG | Invisible Worker | May 1, 2025
Boundary-pushing, Seoul-based progressive rock/jazz outfit yonglee & the DOLTANG have rapidly established themselves as a defining creative force on the Korean and European jazz scenes. Led by pianist and composer yonglee, the group delivers a thought-provoking satirical exploration of modern society’s complexities, absurdities and contradictions through their heavy, high-energy sound.
Their debut studio album ‘Invisible Worker’ is set for release on May 1st, 2025 on Unit Records.
Blending elements of progressive rock, pop, contemporary jazz, free improvisation and electronic experimentation, ‘Invisible Worker’ is a testament to the group’s genre-defying vision. Defined by intricate layers of mind-bending rhythms, complex contemporary harmony, rock-leaning distorted guitars and emotionally charged improvisation, the record showcases a deeply resonant sound that is as exciting as it is thought-provoking.
Born from the creative synergy of five musicians who reunited in Seoul after years apart, the ensemble’s work reflects the struggle of artists navigating the relentless demands of their craft. Through its nine original tracks, the album captures the tension between creative passion and the pressures of modern existence. From the raw energy of harsh electronic textures to the nostalgic warmth of ’90s and 2000s synths, each piece channels the complex intersection of personal identity and societal expectations.
As they carve out a distinctive space in the jazz and progressive rock landscape, ‘Invisible Worker’ stands as a bold statement of artistic vision and human connection. Raising a sonic mirror to contemporary existence, the band hopes their story offers comfort and courage to those who listen.
To celebrate the release, yonglee & the DOLTANG will be performing at esteemed venues across Europe including Bimhuis (NL), Enter Enea Jazz Festival (PL), KAAP (BE), and Jassmine (PL).
Line up
yonglee | Piano, Rhodes, Compositions
Youngwoo Lee | Synths, Electronics
Yechan Jo | Electric & Acoustic Guitar Hwansu Kang | Bass
Dayeon Seok | Drums
Featuring: Song Yi Jeon | Vocals (Tracks 4 & 8)
Track Listing
S50und P61ant7
Pay Day
Shell
Fluorescent Light (Feat. Song Yi Jeon)
Drops
Do Plastic Bags Dream About Sunset
Dopamine Rush
March of the Invisibles
Chit-Kong
PR Quotes
Jazz Journal (UK)
“Invisible Worker is fiery, in fact hellbent on hooks and crunchy counterbeats. Psychedelica meets prog jazz in a mix that brings to mind the music of an array of adventurers: Joe Zawinul and Paul Bley’s synth excursions, Flaming Lips, Cornelius. It’s an acquired indie and occasionally noisy taste, but ingenious, no mistaking.“
Maxazine (NL)
“highly enjoyable… Boundaries have been pushed”
La Habitacion del Jazz (ES)
“full of strength and energy… a transgressive group that stimulates the listener”
Progressor (NO)
“a solid entry into the jazz-rock part of the progressive rock universe…should end up high on the list of album of the year for 2025 among people who tend to enjoy this specific variety”
Mainly Piano (USA)
“a wild ride!“
Esensja (PL)
“perfect proof that we truly live in a global village”
Blue in Green (UK)
“an album bursting with personality, incredible performances and scintillating energy”
Era Jazzu (PL)
“a curious vision of contemporary jazz that transcends conventional genres”
FREQ (UK)
“a fantastic introduction to an unexpected genre that thrills at every turn”
A Green Man (USA)
“If your taste ranges from electric Miles and Herbie Hancock to, well, Portishead, do check this one out.”
Jazz Mania (BE)
“MA group to follow which already offers, from its first album, splendidly interpreted and very fresh music. Highly recommended.”
Cuttings
