“Two Shores” by Jim “Kimo” West & Michael Whalen
Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Radio Staff
Here is an uplifting magical musical journey from two of the best musicians on the planet. Grammy® winner Jim “Kimo” West and two-time Emmy® winner Michael Whalen have teamed up to bring us an unforgettable musical adventure.
Blending their unique styles, these two musical legends have crafted a gorgeous album of ten soulful, melodic gems. Each track is a wonderful showcase of their unique talents and special synergy. I love this collaboration so much.
On the album, Jim “Kimo” West is on acoustic and electric guitars and electric bass, while Michael Whalen performs on keyboards, synths, synth bass, acoustic and electronic percussion, and drum programming. Together they wrote all the music and performed on every instrument, making this a beautiful, melodic, New Age contemporary instrumental with a hint of smooth jazz.
If I have it right, “Two Shores” refers to the two different shores they each come from; Kimo West from Hawaii and Whalen from the shores of New York. The album opens with the delightful title track which uplifts the spirit and takes us nicely into the journey from the very first notes.
Following is the equally enjoyable “Ocean’s Embrace.” Dreamy, with some percolating chill, this is great and transports us right where we need to be.
You know that wonderful soft and squishy feeling of the sand between your toes when you walk on the beach? “Sand Between My Toes” perfectly captures that sensation. This is lightly “jazzy” and moves along smoothly, giving us an unmistakable “feel good” beachy vibe.
If you’ve ever been to Malibu, California, you know how special those beaches are. “Malibu Breeze” is one of my favorites on the album. Gentle, just like a warm ocean breeze blowing softly across one’s face, the guitar here is exquisite, as is the rest. Love it.
“Tides of Your Touch,” which I believe was released as a single (full album release date is August 15, 2025), is flowing and melodic. Percussion is great here along with a very nice “mind sticking” melody.
Another memorable melody and graceful, flowing vibe, “A Moment Like Forever” keeps us in “vacation mode.” This is easy, breezy and just lovely.
With its heavenly aroma, the pikake (meaning “peacock”) flower is a classic symbol of romance and love in Hawaii. “Pikake” is an ultra-romantic track that stays with us long after it ends. Just beautiful, with intricate guitar and other elements making this also a favorite.
Have you ever watched it rain from the shore? It’s actually a very special sight. And then, of course, we have the rainbow that comes after. Percolating percussion underneath this scintillating piece creates the perfect soundscape for this ambiance. Again, guitar is superb here along with the rest.
If we’re fortunate enough to have another day, we get to “Rise With The Sun.” This piece captures the excitement, elation, and gratefulness that can be present as we greet the new day. This is outstanding in every way.
This mood-boosting, uplifting album closes out with “Weightless on the Wind,” which carries us along fluidly with its elegant melody. Here, we have a feeling of complete freedom and soaring peace. I found the album totally invigorating, rejuvenating, and elevating to the spirit. I think you will too. Relax and chill out effortlessly on these two shores.
Get it here: https://tr.ee/kTRy18bcR8
A conversation about “Two Shores:” https://youtu.be/SsguwoFSWkQ?si=u86COdxwTy6K93al
Official music video for “Tides of Your Touch:” https://youtu.be/Exv5KCRtBsQ?si=CWQYCdZxlVzPjkSe
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