In what was once the solemn plains of the states of Yan and Zhao, the orderly streets and alleys are full of people from all walks of life, and in the early morning, from amidst the hustle and bustle, comes the sweet sound of the wooden drum. The songs found in old Beijing folk music are the product of generation after generation of heartfelt storytelling and musical talent. Feng Xinrui, the new era of Chinese folk music, brings these stories to life in all their splendor, whether they be tales of joy or of sadness.

   Chinese folk music is a general term incorporating all forms of Chinese spoken and sung performing arts, and is the product of many generations of folk literature and song. Throughout the ages, these songs have been enjoyed in all corners of China, these tales have been told countless times in countless narrow streets. Familiar to the old and the young alike, these songs have become a part of their lives, the timeless stories of ancient heroes, and are full of the energy of the common people. On this compilation you may find a collection of classic Chinese folk songs originating from Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei. Feng Xinrui, a successor of the “Luo style” of Jingyun Dagu (storytelling with drum accompaniment), performs the art with authentic flavor, and shows the unique characteristics of each form of folk song. From these songs one can feel the passion of those who from ancient times have felt the urge to tell these stories, the spirit of the Chinese people. Her renditions of these songs are truly unforgettable. For this collection we have selected classic songs from a wide variety of northern Chinese folk music, and have presented them in a new light.

   This album is a collection of universal favorites, including the theme song from the television series Four Generations; the modern Jingyun Dagu song Rearranging the Landscape, written by dagu master Luo Yusheng in his later years; the classic traditional piece Daybreak; the danxian tune Wind and Rain; and many more. Among these songs you will find some that are full of grief, of the struggles of ancient cities; some of the songs are paintings of mystical scenic settings, of mountains and forests inhabited by wild creatures; there is also the tragic tale of Lin Daiyu, as she is tormented by heartache; and Emperor Xuanzong and Concubine Yang’s romance that was just never meant to be….You may also find tales of discarding the bonds of society and becoming a hermit deep in the mountains, of autumn insects, of the vitality of the sunrise….Stories reflecting all aspects of human nature.

   The mellow and unrestrained sound of northern Chinese folk music has spread the customs of the northerners far and wide, blessing the Beijing-Tianjin region with a flavor that is all its own. Each form of drum-accompanied music has its own characteristics, can be spoken or sung, and the pieces may be inspired by anything from whimsical stories to deep emotions. Here you may find Jingyun Dagu, with its distinct sound and unbridled melodies; Tianjin shidiao, with its lively tempo and straightforward style of expression; the mournful and moving Meihua Dagu; the soothing and comforting Danxian, Chaqu; the natural melody and lively atmosphere of Laoting Dagu; and the humor and playfulness of Jingdong Dagu. The brilliance of northern Chinese folk music is that is uses the unique combination of speaking and singing, to create an art that is simplistic yet full of heart and life. Folk musician Feng Xinrui, a disciple of the Luo style of folk music, with her unforgettable voice and high-spirited performances, continues the legacy of his master’s artistic accomplishments.

   Also appearing on this compilation are supporting performances by sanxian player Mr. Han Baoli, a fellow and long-time concert collaborator of Luo Yusheng; as well as his two daughters, newcomers to the folk art scene. Coordination of this compilation was overseen by renowned producer Ye Yunchuan, continuing his Chinese Opera Series; the live recordings were performed by recording artist Li Dakang; and post-production was carried out by Stockfisch Records of Germany, completing the international production team. With every listening of this compilation, you will discover tales of times and places lost but not forgotten, like a panoramic painting of ancient times, presented with the charming melodies of northern Chinese folk music.