Vera Ellen Releases New Song “Gayfever” as 13th Floor Pick of the Day
Vera Ellen, a critically acclaimed artist hailing from Naenae in Te Whanganui-A-Tara/Wellington, is making a triumphant return with her latest single, Gayfever. This track is part of her upcoming album, Heaven Knows What Time, set to be released on May 1st through Flying Nun Records.
After a three-year hiatus following the release of her award-winning album, Ideal Home Noise, Vera Ellen has delved into a world of unpredictability, embracing the chaos that comes with being an independent artist in today’s fast-paced society. Her upcoming album, Heaven Knows What Time, is a departure from the introspective tone of her previous work and instead focuses on the concept of simply existing. It encourages listeners to shed their masks and reveal their authentic selves, embracing both the highs and lows of life.
Gayfever, the lead single from Heaven Knows What Time, is an ode to the intoxicating feeling of infatuation and is accompanied by a mesmerizing video featuring Zipporah Norton. The album title itself, Heaven Knows What Time, came to Vera Ellen in a moment of clarity while she was in Buenos Aires. After months of contemplation and multiple name changes, the title resonated with her as a testament to the unpredictable nature of creativity and the importance of allowing art to develop organically.
Produced by her longtime collaborator, Ben Lemi, Heaven Knows What Time embodies both a question and an answer, reflecting Vera Ellen’s journey of frustration and surrender in the face of circumstances beyond her control. The album was born out of a two-week songwriting residency in Greytown, providing her with the space and solitude she needed to rekindle her creative spark. The experience also instilled a sense of accountability as she felt compelled to create something meaningful as a testament to her identity as a songwriter.
Heaven Knows What Time is a departure from the heaviness of Ideal Home Noise, incorporating themes of love, joy, and self-assurance while embracing contradictions and introspection. Vera Ellen’s music has garnered international acclaim, with her previous albums receiving recognition from critics and audiences alike. Her unique blend of introspective lyrics and experimental soundscapes has solidified her reputation as a groundbreaking artist in the music industry.
Vera Ellen’s artistic journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication to her craft. From her early days playing in bands in Aotearoa to her international success, she has remained true to her vision and continued to push the boundaries of her artistry. With the release of Heaven Knows What Time on the horizon, Vera Ellen is poised to captivate audiences once again with her signature blend of vulnerability and creativity.