RedazioneWith her latest track “Earendel,” Ukrainian singer and composer Janeuary continues to push the boundaries of her artistic expression, blending electronic soundscapes with haunting visuals and emotive depth. Released on October 7, 2024, “Earendel” comes accompanied by a mesmerizing video co-directed by Janeuary and Max Levchenko. Set against a noir-inspired backdrop reminiscent of classic Hollywood, Janeuary’s performance captivates as she dances alongside two royal pythons, exuding both elegance and edge. This daring visual piece reflects Janeuary’s deep love for animals and her comfort with the exotic, challenging both her own limits and those of her audience.
The title “Earendel,” derived from Old English, translates to “light” or “morning star.” It refers to the most distant star ever observed, a fitting metaphor for the ethereal and otherworldly quality Janeuary brings to this song. The track is built on a foundation of atmospheric beats and evocative electronic synth lines, an approach that departs from her prior works in alternative pop and veers into a realm of ambient, almost meditative soundscapes. The song invites listeners to immerse themselves fully, creating a feeling of floating through the farthest reaches of space—much like the distant star it’s named after.
The rhythmic elements of “Earendel” are subtle yet essential, guiding the song with a steady, pulsing beat that provides structure without overwhelming the other layers. Janeuary’s decision to keep the beat understated allows her velvet vocals to shine, adding a soothing, almost hypnotic cadence to the track. Her voice melds seamlessly with the ambient instrumental layers, creating an experience that feels both intimate and vast.
A defining feature of “Earendel” is its bassline, which acts as the song’s anchor amidst a swirl of synthesized sounds. The bass is deep and resonant, grounding the ethereal, atmospheric layers while adding a sensual warmth to the overall feel of the track. This contrast between groundedness and airy lightness is masterfully executed, evoking a sense of longing and introspection. Janeuary’s lyrics, though minimalistic, carry weight and convey a reflective melancholy that lingers in the listener’s mind, much like the fading glow of a distant star.
The synth work in “Earendel” is a standout, with a variety of textures that add depth and complexity to the composition. From shimmering pads to occasional arpeggiated melodies, the synths create a lush, immersive soundscape. The production quality here is top-notch, allowing each layer to breathe while maintaining a cohesive sonic journey. This attention to detail is reflective of Janeuary’s artistry and commitment to her craft, making “Earendel” not just a song but an experience.
The music video adds yet another layer to the overall artistry of “Earendel.” The noir-style visuals, coupled with Janeuary’s enigmatic dance with her reptilian co-stars, lend the video a surreal, almost dreamlike quality. It’s a bold choice that complements the track’s atmospheric allure and hints at the thematic undercurrents of mystery, vulnerability, and self-discovery. Janeuary’s willingness to confront her own fears and embrace the exotic speaks to her fearless approach to art and life alike, a sentiment that is palpable throughout the video.
Beyond “Earendel,” the mini-album of the same name, released in late September, includes six tracks that offer a range of electronic soundscapes. Each track adds a different color to the album, from the French-language piece “Viens avec moi” to the dual versions of “Close Your Eyes,” one of which is a remix in collaboration with Ukrainian musician Esolate. This project reflects Janeuary’s versatility as an artist and her willingness to experiment, offering a refreshing shift from her previous releases while maintaining the emotional depth her fans have come to love.
In sum, “Earendel” is a stunning addition to Janeuary’s evolving discography, blending cinematic visuals with deeply emotive, atmospheric music. This track—and indeed the entire album—serves as a reminder of her unique voice in the contemporary music scene and her ability to craft art that resonates on multiple levels. Whether Janeuary will continue exploring electronic music or return to her alternative pop roots remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: she is an artist unafraid of the unknown, and her journey is one worth following.
