To the average listener, violins, saxophones, and trombones might not be considered natural compliments, at least at first. They certainly form an unorthodox trio. But after hearing the first single taken from Katherine Kyu Hyeon Lim's debut album, Starling, some of those preconcieved notions about sound are bound to change. As It All Goes By is a curious interweaving of strings, reed, and brass, and the result is stunning.
Katherine Kyu Hyeon Lim by Jesse L. Kearse IV
Much like the album title's avian reference, At It All Goes By seems to flutter awake, like a dawn chorus in morning's first light. The track opens with Lim's sprightly violin, but a few seconds in, saxophone and trombone join in song. Once the trio crosses the minute mark, these instrumental chirps turn into long melodic calls. Alfredo Colón provides the sonic apex while Kalia Vandever adds her own textural flair. Eventually, the saxophone and trombone peel away, leaving Lim's violin alone to sing. Though As It All Goes By is the album's closing track, it feels like the song's final notes are not an ending, but rather, a warm welcome to a new day. Have a listen below.
Starling is out in full on June 2nd, but the pre-order is live now, so feel free to hit the link. I've had the pleasure of hearing the album from start to finish, and believe me, it's wonderful.