Perspective

Description

Its clear, when looking at Jlins body of work, and her recent activities, that shes the definition of what a creative composer looks and sounds like in 2023. Shes able to work across borders in many different environments and situations. Her work, and sound, is fluid and not locked into genre. The only apt tag for her now is composer. Lets be clear shes not EDM, IDM, electronic, footwork or post-footwork. Shes simply Jlin.

In thinking about this new release we have to draw attention to her collaboration with Chicagos Third Coast Percussion Perspective since its also the title of this six-track mini-album. And of course, wed be remit if we didnt point out that Third Coast Percussions acoustic version of Perspective saw Jlin shortlisted as a finalist for The 2023 Pulitzer Prize in Music! Jlin notes how Working with T.C.P. was a rewarding experience. I love their constant driving ambition. When I would go to their studio we would experiment as much as we could, and that to me is the beauty of composing. Note that the CD version of Perspective adds the four tracks from her Embryo EP, apt since Embryo itself was the 7th Perspective piece.

To shift perspective slightly, Jlin notes that collaborating with dance companies, especially those of Wayne McGregor and Kyle Abraham has seen a significant evolution in my work. She adds, Working with Kyle and AIM, I felt the need to incorporate more organic percussion and drums. The raw, visceral nature of Kyles choreography demanded a more tactile, grounded sound. I believe that music and dance are deeply interconnected, and the rhythm and physicality of organic percussion needs to mirror the dancers movements whether it is conceptually or abstract.

The organic aspect of her composition Dissonance, a key cut on her new mini-album sounds like it might have been written for Kyle and AIM but, like the entire release, it was in fact written for Third Coast Percussion. With the organic drums in the track being a part of what Jlin calls her from scratch foundation. For many Dissonance will be a first glimpse at Jlins mastery of organic sounds. Its a stunning work that showcases her distinct approach to organic percussion. Further audible evidence can also be heard all over her new mini-album. She continues to evolve her sound and her approaches to composition on a steady and constant basis.

Jlins new mini-album Perspective works as a catch-up for those wanting new music from her, and wanting to hear how her sound is evolving. Tune in. Theres much more ahead.