Yev
Self-Released, 2025
8/10
This first album from the guitarist and vocalist Yev blends folk, blues, pop and world music ideas via these 9 tracks that surround hope, loss and the search for belonging.
The heartfelt “Refugee” opens the listen with expressive singing and Yev’s melodic guitar playing, and “Witness” follows with many backing vocals that suit the harmonic landscape.
In the middle, “Hunger” displays a dreamy delivery of rich and colorful songwriting, while “Last Prayer” is a fuller album highlight that uses drums and bass strategically amid the emotive vocals.
Residing close to the end, “Kozak’s Lament” is a cautious moment of vivid storytelling that touches on Yev’s Ukrainian roots, and “Bez Mene” exits with cultured ideas and timeless pop and rock nods that are textured with beauty.
A strong debut album, there’s haunting moments, sublime balladry and busier bouts of folk-rock that touch on the human experience with mature, enlightening and timeless creativity.
Travels well with: The Scarlet Goodbye- Speedway; Andy Hanson- Roots