Paul JB Lee - Supernova (2025) [Hi-Res]

Seoul- and New York City-based jazz guitarist Paul JB Lee’s debut album, Supernova, was deeply inspired by his quest to understand the purpose of existence within the vast and magnificent observable universe. The spark of curiosity ignited while gazing at the breathtaking New York City night sky, contemplating how humanity has managed to reach the surface of the moon. As he reflected on the immensity of the cosmos, he came to a profound realization—human existence is insignificant in the grand scheme of the universe. Yet, rather than despair, this understanding brought him a sense of liberation. If human beings are insignificant, then so too are the hardships, agonies, and sufferings they endure. And because of this insignificance, there is no room or time for hate, jealousy, self-aggrandizement, or narcissism. These realizations became the core inspiration behind the album, driving him to express these thoughts in the way he knows best—through musical notes, harmonies, and rhythms. The album was recorded in early summer 2018 in New York City. Although it took seven years to finally see the light of day, Supernova is set to be released on February 21, 2025. Paul JB Lee hopes that these compositions will resonate with listeners and inspire the same curiosity that once ignited his own. Especially, the last bonus track—a rendition of Charlie Parker’s jazz standard Ah Leu Cha—will be available exclusively on the physical copy of the album.