Wim Mertens
Un Respiro

"Un Respiro" 2004 is to date the last album of original works by Wim Mertens.
It is 'Petite Musique De Chambre' as the author himself defines his compositions for piano and voice. It is Mertens’ album that is closest to classical music: a dive into the atmospheres of the 18th century.

The Flemish pianist is here more than ever far from the rigid minimalist frameworks. If with "Strategie De La Rupture" (1991) the 'Petite Musique De Chambre' had indeed taken on a defined and proper form, in this album it takes flight towards horizons of infinite emotions.
The pieces are all for piano and voice, sometimes accompanied by a 'whistling' from Mertens himself. "Un Respiro" has a very rich, lively, and expressive sound. Very catchy melodies. Magical atmospheres. Magnificent notes that captivate from the first listen.
Mertens’ vocal interpretation is much improved and more mature compared to his previous works. We find the usual incomprehensible language invented by the Belgian artist; the nonexistent words do not express a concept but communicate through the universal language of emotion and atmosphere.

The Italian word 'Un Respiro', chosen by the author as the album title, is very suitable for the sensations aroused by the melodies found in the album: Peace, harmony, balance, tranquillity. Notes vividly colored by the sound of the Belgian's piano. A splendid effect.

The mysterious 'incipit' of "Essence Of The (K)not", the gentle serenity of "Warm By The Another", the perfect compositional balance of "From Lure To Lure", the pressing classically-styled melodies of "Fitting Destiny", the lively harmonies of "Gleaming From Afar-Kort" and the monumental air of the concluding title track "Un Respiro" leave no room for doubt of any kind: a new musical gem by Wim Mertens.