Isn't the traditional slant muzzle "brake" on AKs really a compensator than a brake? A brake lowers recoil, a compensator decreases the muzzle moving in a certain direction. If I'm not mistaken, the traditional slant muzzle brake will make the recoil go more straight backward, rather than back and on an angle. Also if I'm not mistaken, it also helps prevent muzzle flip, and it makes the rifle flip straight up, rather than on an angle.

Can someone recommend a compensator/flash hider for an AK? I don't want a muzzle brake that lowers recoil because they are loud and I rather have my shoulder be hit than my ears.

The M16A2 brake is a good combination of brake and comp. There are 1x14LH versions out there.  CNC Warrior has one, plus a few other flash hider designs.  https://www.cncwarrior.com/SearchResults.asp?Cat=1884

The AKM slant brake was designed because it was determined on full auto the AK went up and to one side (can't remember which side offhand). It's just a simple cup to direct gasses to counter that.  It's useless for semi-auto fire.

If you can find them the Draco A2 compensators have three position detent stops so you can time them to have a counter the torque effect

ETA: Oops, reading is fundamental, I need more coffee.

The old taco slot break that looks like a cuts compensator off a Thompson smg is a good one as well. Hard to find these days though.