This second collaboration between Canadian composers Ida Toninato (baritone sax, voice, synthesizers) and Jennifer Thiessen (viola, voice, synthesizers) arose from a live show called Winter[City]Speaks, which they developed during a period of lockdown in the winter of 2021. A string-driven lament, I need warmth opens the album with an ancient, droning feeling that pulls you right into the narrative of “death and rebirth as manifested by the experience of winter.” Working with producer Jason Sharp, who also contributes synthesizers, they maintain a compelling tension throughout the six tracks, resulting in a song cycle that feels very complete. Even if you’re not connecting with the lyrics, in this long, cold, murderous winter of 2026, I think we can all relate when Toninato unleashes wordless shrieks in I am suffocating. Fortunately, the consolation of Change is the next song, ending the album with a feeling of peace, well-being, and community.