I last reviewed Kim back in 2019, when I was attempting to get Indie Launchpad back up and running, something that unfortunately did not quite pan out. So it felt a little like kismet when I saw Kim had a new release. I knew it would not take long for a review to follow, and here we are.

The EP opens with the title track “Dreams”, built on a wonderful ethereal guitar line and an atmospheric, almost finger picked bass. When Kim’s vocals come in, everything falls into place. I have always loved her voice, and having first reviewed her music many years ago, it feels fair to say for me it's now better than ever. As the song progresses, an intensity slowly builds. It is hard to pin down, but with the addition of a hammered piano it begins to fill your thoughts, before gently ebbing away again, unfurling as it fades.

The next track, “Courage”, starts more conventionally with acoustic guitar before a fuller sound kicks in through the addition of drums, bass, and vocals. After being spoiled by the opening track, this one feels much shorter, but that is its only failing, and even that comes across as a compliment in disguise.

"I Don’t Wanna Give Up" feels more rooted in pop and country, or perhaps Americana. Her vocals here reminded me of Sheryl Crow. I did not connect with this track in quite the same way. The production also feels like it loses a little of the essence of Kim’s vocals, not surprising I suppose given the earlier comparison, which slightly dulls the emotional impact for me. Don't get me wrong, I liked the track, but can't help but feel it's the odd one out, with the rest of the tracks.

The same cannot be said for "Dream (Cutting Room Version)", which presents a pared back, stripped down take on the opener. I love this version almost as much as the original. It carries a very different feel, and that contrast works beautifully, with both versions standing on their own for very different reasons.

Kim’s latest EP is her first since 2021 and continues to showcase her depth and versatility, from the ethereal intensity of the opener "Dream" to the stripped-back intimacy and reworking of "Dream (Cutting Room Version)". Overall, the EP highlights Kim’s voice at its best, expressive, confident, and timeless, making it a rewarding listen from start to finish. She hasn’t had a full album release since 2019, and here’s hoping this EP, along with the recent singles she's released, are signs of a new album on the horizon.