September 17, 2026
Blue Note Records China, the newly established jazz label under Universal Music Greater China, today announced the upcoming release of its new compilation album, NOW’S THE TIME: AN ANTHOLOGY OF CONTEMPORARY CHINESE JAZZ [Vol. 1]. The lead single, “Arc Light,” performed by Red Hand Band and composed by the band’s core member and pianist Xia Jia, is out today. The full album will be released on October 23, 2026.
Marking a milestone release for Blue Note Records China, the compilation brings together three acclaimed producers: Don Was, President of Blue Note Records and Grammy Award-winning producer; Zhang Yadong, one of China’s most celebrated music producers; and Ren Yuqing, a leading figure in Chinese jazz scene and founder of JZ Music.
Notably, Don Was traveled from the United States to China for the project, visiting both Shanghai and Beijing to meet each artist featured on the compilation and was deeply involved in all recording sessions — from Red Hand Band’s improvisational sessions in a Beijing studio to the nuanced interpretations of Shanghai-based jazz musicians. As the current President of Blue Note Records, Don Was’ involvement not only ensures the album’s connection to Blue Note’s enduring philosophy of “pure jazz,” but also brings world-class production standards and an international perspective to this landmark Chinese jazz project. Approaching the album from a local perspective, Zhang Yadong and Ren Yuqing contributed their deep understanding of Chinese jazz musicians’ unique artistic expressions. Together, the three producers have created a project that serves as an important bridge connecting China’s jazz voices with the global stage.
Ren Yuqing stated: “Jazz has flourished for over a century, and today it is blossoming anew. The voice of Chinese jazz is part of that new growth. These colorful and distinctive pieces showcase the imagination, creativity, and artistry of Chinese jazz musicians. They represent one possible future for jazz—a new direction for the music. We hope the world will hear the sound of Chinese jazz and feel the creative force behind it. You don’t need to understand music; all you need to do is listen, and it becomes yours.”
Zhang Yadong stated: “It was a remarkable encounter and a truly inspiring collision of ideas. NOW’S THE TIME captures the emotional worlds and artistic explorations of today’s musicians, preserving their powerful presence, the free and captivating notes, and those fleeting yet deeply moving moments. It also captures Don Was’ profound understanding of and deep respect for the music. Unforgettable and truly one of a kind.”
Serving as the opening track of the compilation, “Arc Light” is performed by Red Hand Band and composed by the band’s pianist and core member, Xia Jia. Xia has been praised by esteemed jazz critic Nate Chinen (New York Times, NPR), who described his improvisations as “soulful, harmonically forward and marked by painterly restraint.”
Since making its debut at Beijing’s legendary D22 Club in 2006, Red Hand Band has established itself as one of the defining forces in China’s contemporary jazz scene. Culminating in its 20th Anniversary National Tour in 2025, the group has consistently embodied both the pioneering spirit and enduring foundations of Chinese jazz. “Arc Light” captures the vitality of contemporary Chinese jazz—music that is deeply rooted in tradition while continually pushing creative boundaries.
Don Was has spoken highly of the Chinese jazz scene, saying “The incredible depth of talent and musical sophistication that characterizes China’s current jazz scene will blow people’s minds! We are looking forward to spreading that musical message across the globe.”
NOW’S THE TIME marks not only a new release from Blue Note Records China, but also a comprehensive showcase of some of the most forward-thinking voices in China’s contemporary jazz landscape. Bringing together diverse artistic expressions, the compilation highlights the broad spectrum and evolving identity of Chinese jazz today.
The album features guitarist Zhang Xiongguan’s “One Is Too Many,” a ballad blending pop sensibilities with jazz harmony; trumpeter Li Xiaochuan’s “Harvest,” inspired by the folk arts of Shanghai’s Jinshan district; guitarist Zhihan Xu, drummer Zhitong Xu and experimental electronic artist Gooooose’s “Haven of the Wandering Desert,” a composition rich with Eastern aesthetics and cinematic imagery; bassist Chenhuai Wang and Italian jazz pianist Moreno Donadel’s heartfelt bass-and-piano duet “Song For My Family”; and multi-instrumentalist Eugene Sun’s “Where It All Began,” an exploration of inner instinct and self-discovery.
Across six tracks, the compilation journeys through avant-garde improvisation, folk storytelling, cultural fusion, Eastern-inspired soundscapes, personal narratives, and spiritual exploration — collectively painting a vivid portrait of contemporary Chinese jazz.
Since its founding in New York in 1939 by Alfred Lion, Blue Note Records has remained committed to its founding vision of presenting “pure jazz” and preserving the authenticity and artistic integrity of the music. Through its iconic full musician credits, uncompromising recording standards, and deep respect for improvisational expression, the label has become one of the most influential jazz labels in history.
In May 2025, Universal Music Greater China officially launched Blue Note Records China, with the vision of carrying forward the legacy and spirit of the legendary label while establishing meaningful partnerships with local jazz artists. Through a localized approach, the label aims to support Chinese jazz musicians and bring their music to a wider international audience.
Timothy Xu, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music Greater China, said: “Since launching Blue Note Records China last year, our ambition has been to create a meaningful platform for Chinese jazz artists, combining Blue Note’s extraordinary legacy and artistic values with the creativity of a new generation of local musicians. NOW’S THE TIME marks an important milestone in bringing that vision to life. It showcases the diversity, originality and confidence of contemporary Chinese jazz, while creating new opportunities for these exceptional artists to reach audiences in China and around the world. This is an exciting first chapter for Blue Note Records China — and for the growing global story of Chinese jazz.”
The title NOW’S THE TIME pays tribute to the legendary jazz standard of the same name while declaring a new chapter for Chinese jazz — now is the time for Chinese jazz to be heard. Through six groups of artists and six distinctive musical voices, the compilation captures the diversity, creativity, and evolving landscape of contemporary Chinese jazz.
