The Audacity
Aerocade, 2025
9/10
The inimitable multi-instrumentalist Meerenai Shim returns with her 4th album and 10 years after her last solo release, which has her playing many instruments across the classical and chamber hybrid.
“Vermont Counterpoint” opens with 11 flutes harmonizing with tremendous beauty via the animated and energetic layers, and “O Sapientia” follows with flute, alto flute and electronics that suit Carl Alexander’s gorgeous countertenor that radiates much emotion.
Landing in the middle, “You Don’t Belong Here” showcases warm piano playing amid the dreamy flute and strategic drumming with much richness, while the title track is closer to rock territory thanks to the thumping drums.
Close to the end, “Miniatures, Book 4: Preset Etudes” meshes playful dream machine and poetic flute for the curious organic versus synthetic formula, and “Whispers On The Wind” exits with 22 minutes of ambience, mystery and even ominous bouts thanks to the cinematic and artistic qualities.
A sonically engaging effort, the modern recording techniques illuminates Shim’s superb playing and atypical vision that we can all appreciate.
Travels well with: Rachel Yonan- Kiss On Wood; Sean Hickey/Vladimir Rumyantsev- Sapiens: A Brief History Of Humankind