Mimi Novic’s Zen-like calm tenderly touches the heart on “Realms Through Eternity”. Her hushed whisper radiates throughout the entirety of the album proving to the center from which all else flows. The approach of classical traditions with a distinctly modern edge makes it a careful, thoughtfully compelling body of work. By far though the true soul of the album comes from her impeccable storytelling which itself is peppered with poetry. So many allusions to the natural world further lend it a graceful pastoral beauty. With a delicate approach she helps the listener along through such a vast cavernous space, one that goes into the innermost workings of the human spirit.
Classically inclined vignettes draw to mind Max Richter’s caring and carefully composed works. Akin to his pieces, the melodies here possess a great vitality to them. Small details matter a great deal whether it is the fragile phrase of the piano to something much more symphonic like the sweeping of strings. The arrangements defy any specific genre, drawing from a whole slew of traditions. In that way, their calming presence references the Penguin Café Orchestra’s compassionate odes. Everything is kept to the essentials while they linger about in the mind full of vitality.
Wordless choirs introduce the album on the heavenly opener “Promises of Life”. Upon the inclusion of Mimi Novic’s soothing voice the album truly blooms. Lush patterns intermingle on the fragile “Joy of Healing”. Gorgeous harp rhythms reminiscent of Joanna Newsom’s giddy enthusiasm anchors the spirited “Secret Song”. Pure passion flows through “Freedom to Feel” which nicely punctuates the power of her words. Chords bounce off each other for “Cherish Every Breath” feels quite intimate. A regal procession rolls through “Glory of the Divine”. With a hint of slowcore’s patient aesthetic “Ultimate Truth” features wonderful brush work on the drums while the guitars possess a spacious western twang.
The theatrical presence of “Forgotten Symphony” grows and grows in sheer magnitude giving it a cinematic appeal. Building itself up “Caressed by Love” features a lilting kindness to it. Unfurling with such care “Chords of Heaven” explores the psyche with sincerity. Powerful piano keys give “Adore the Light” a distinct jazzy ambience. Perfectly balanced patterns weave together with “This Moment”. A sense of triumph makes “Wisdom of Time” the highlight of the album, taking the previous works and letting them come into the light. On “Kismet” it closes things off on a reflective note.
“Realms Through Eternity” proves Mimi Novic’s uncanny knack to guide others through the very essence of their being in a way that is so refreshingly reassuring.
Spotify – Realms Through Eternity
