Mindy Meng Wang & Sui Zhen

Origin of You is a profound collaboration between Chinese-Australian composers Mindy Meng Wang 王萌 and Sui Zhen, released on November 10, 2023, via Music In Exile. The album emerged from a spontaneous meeting in Melbourne, evolving into a deep artistic bond that transcends cultural and personal boundaries.

The album is structured around three central motifs: 空 (Kōng, Emptiness), 疼 (Téng, Pain), and 气 (Chi, Energy), each representing different facets of the human experience. These themes are explored through the evocative sounds of the guzheng, a traditional Chinese instrument, combined with ambient textures and subtle electronic elements. Tracks like "I Don’t Speak Your Language" and "Watch My Mum Dance" delve into personal narratives of migration, motherhood, and identity.

Critics have lauded the album for its emotional depth and innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds. Higher Plain Music notes that the album's experimental approach makes it particularly appealing to fans of ambient and experimental music, while also offering a fresh perspective for those interested in traditional Chinese music.