Zack Browning brings his unique musical universe to Atlanta
American composer Zack Browning is making a musical return to Atlanta with a series of concerts and lectures across the metro area and beyond to showcase his latest album release. Browning’s creative process draws inspiration from various disciplines like art, science, music, mathematics, and philosophy, all of which converge into a cohesive whole reminiscent of Herman Hesse’s novel, The Glass Bead Game.
In his upcoming album, Rock Galaxy, Browning delves deeply into the realms of Chinese magic squares, planetary magic squares, feng shui, and astrology, integrating multiple musical styles within a singular structure. To celebrate the release of his new work, Browning will be hosting an album release party at Eyedrum on February 16, followed by another concert and a “Lunar New Year Celebration” at Kennesaw State University on February 17. Additionally, he will be conducting lectures on “The Harmony of Numbers” at various institutions to elaborate on his creative process.
Rock Galaxy embodies Browning’s fusion of progressive rock, jazz fusion, and contemporary classical music, exploring themes of sacred geometry, feng shui, and mysticism from around the world. By incorporating planetary magic squares and feng shui principles into his compositions, Browning creates intricate pieces like “Sol Prophecy” and “Cosmic Changes,” offering a cosmic auditory journey that mesmerizes listeners with its complexity and depth.
Browning’s inspiration for the composition “Sol Prophecy” stemmed from the story of “Our Lady of Fatima” in Portugal, a dramatic narrative scored for piano and two percussionists. Through intricate structuring and research, Browning weaves together historical events and mathematical concepts to create a vivid musical experience that captivates audiences. Drawing on his mentor Herbert Brün’s philosophy of structured composition, Browning infuses his music with discipline and focus, allowing his creativity to flow within defined boundaries.
The upcoming performances at Eyedrum and Kennesaw State feature Browning’s compositions played by a talented ensemble of musicians, showcasing the depth and range of his musical vision. While Browning may not consider these concerts a homecoming, the significance of these events is deeply personal as they coincide with an important milestone in his life, commemorating the memory of his late wife and celebrating a new chapter with his current partner.
Looking forward, Browning shows no signs of slowing down, with plans for more projects and albums on the horizon. His commitment to musical structures as a means of unlocking imagination and creativity underscores his unique approach to composition, making him a pioneer in the realm of avant-garde music. With Rock Galaxy, Zack Browning invites listeners on a cosmic voyage of sound and storytelling that transcends traditional boundaries, offering a truly transformative musical experience.