Continuing to break exciting and creatively fresh ground in contemporary urban jazz, veteran gospel influenced saxophonist Merlon Devine follows his acclaimed 2021 album Soul Jazz – and its popular radio singles “Move,” “Stirred” and Vigor” - with his latest track Shimmer.
It’s a wildly infectious and inspirational, silky, soulful and ultimately soaring tune whose title and uplifting vibe reflect the Light of God – and the Light carried by believers - while also speaking to the faith journeys of both Merlon and the song’s producer and mixer and co-writer Darren Rahn.
Though “Shimmer” marks the first time Merlon has formally collaborated with Rahn, the two have been friends over the past decade. When the time was right for both, they got together at Darren’s studio in Denver and enjoyed an instant musical chemistry. For the song that would evolve into “Shimmer,” Rahn came up with the initial drum track and chords - and the title, which Merlon immediately resonated with. Back at Rahn’s studio, Merlon wrote the stunning melody over those initial elements to make the song complete.
The stellar production features smooth jazz stalwart Randy Jacobs on guitar, Darren Rahn on keys and synths and renowned gospel artist Tarell Martin on drums.