Free-K Revolution is the debut album from Berlin-based Finnish alternative pop artist Venior. She’s appeared on our blog a couple of times before and Jane has even interviewed her, but this full-length is our first chance to dive deeply into her colourful and psychedelic musical world.
By Graeme Smith
Feature photo by Cecilia Kreuzberger
Venior is an activist, and the theme running through Free-K Revolution is a call for systemic change, while also painting a picture of another mystical world. It’s one part of a double concept album, with a story based in science fiction.
The tale starts with Trouble on Planet Earth (Message to the Freeks of the Universe). It feels like the album’s manifesto, told through distorted vocals, brooding electronica and nature sounds. As it progresses, it hits a freaky groove that leads nicely into title track Free-K Revolution. A dance track, it gets you moving straight away and you’re left in no doubt what Venior is trying to do with her music. You can check out its video below.
The first part of the album stays dance-y but gives us different shades. Spit Fire introduces exotic rhythms. Put My Body In Prison But My Spirit Can’t Be Jailed brings pumping bass and quick vocal delivery. Freekstyle Nation gets down and dirty while Feed My Mind slows things down a little, giving us tastes of jazz and R&B.
The middle of the album sees Venior stretching her sonic soundscape. Free-K Parade gives us Gothic rock undertones while Curtains Fall is delicate and soulful pop R&B. Freek Tribe is light and airy, with a mix of electronic and organic instrumentals. It’s a highlight. Rhythm Is My Weapon livens things up with percussion, fuzz and scatting. Meat Lover is urgent and textured. F.R.E.E.K gives us a steady groove and powerful, expressive vocals.
Global Warning kicks off the album’s final part with some smooth yet hard-hitting electronica. ECO-nomy drives home the album’s revolutionary message while Trashion and Concrete Jungle give us an idea of how things could be different. Forget I’m Human is a late moment of delicate ambient pop while Inter-Galatic Force Of Love sees us off with the sci-fi spirit with which we started.
With this ambitious collection of tracks, Venior paints a compelling picture of an alternative world. The messages she delivers can sometimes come across as preachy when delivered by others but she expertly swerves this by giving us some awesome pop grooves along the way. Free-K feels like an important album from a unique artist. You can give it a listen below.