Leenalchi - Here Comes That Crow

Leenalchi (pronounced EEE-nal-chi) play the Asian Arts Initiative on Wednesday, October 28, with Sohme opening. The Seoul-based seven-piece is touring their Luaka Bop debut EP, Here Comes That Crow, and the title track comes from a story about the warlord Cao Cao.

The band is led by bassist Jang Young Gyu, and their sound is built on pansori, a traditional Korean style of musical storytelling rooted in shamanism and developed during the Joseon Dynasty in the 17th century. The lineup is an unusual one: two bassists, drums and keys, no guitar, and four singers. Jang himself is a well-known figure in Korea's indie scene; he previously fronted SsingSsing, whose NPR Tiny Desk concert drew 9.9 million views and earned praise from Bob Boilen. He's also scored films like Train to Busan, The Wailing, and The Good, the Bad, the Weird. His work with pansori began in 2007 after he composed for choreographer Ahn Eun-me's piece Bari.

On Here Comes That Crow, Leenalchi adapts those pansori tales into guitar-less synth rock, and the show is co-presented by R5 Productions and Asian Arts Initiative. Brian Eno, Robyn, Japanese Breakfast, Sylvan Esso and Merrill Garbus have been named among their fans.

The concert is at the Black Box Theater, Asian Arts Initiative, 1219 Vine Street in Philadelphia. Doors open at 7 PM, and the show starts at 8 PM, with tickets priced at $27.87.