New to p99 but played classic EQ in 1999 Questions

[Arrod99]

Nostalgia for old EQ has brought me back. I played a Ranger to 40, Druid to at least 70 through many expansions forget which one I quit on. I also came back to new EQ and played a ready made L85 SK with a merc healer a while but got bored.

Thinking about chanter vs shammy as a new toon. I want something that I can solo easily but still be desirable to a group/raid when I have the time. Are there many people still playing. Which server would be best in late 2021? Any suggestions very welcome.