EP Review: Finelines

Ukrainian born, now Auckland based pop artist VïKÆ has arrived with her debut EP Finelines, released on the 4th of September.

Finelines is the result of a fierce partnership between VïKÆ, real name Veronika Bell and Abigail Knudson Missy. The end product is a highly polished, electro-pop masterpiece that proves that VïKÆ is a force to be reckoned with.

With a background in classical music, VïKÆ studied a Bachelor of Music at Otago University in classical voice, before making the switch to contemporary voice. The classical influence is evident in the grand, orchestral like soundscapes in Finelines.

We begin with opening track #fakefriends, a big sounding pop tune that starts the six track EP off with a bang. VïKÆ’s childlike, almost mocking vocals are reminiscent of early Marina and the Diamonds. A definite highlight of the EP, #fakefriends is the perfect introduction to this talented artist.

Next up is Truth, the lead single originally released in September 2019. A confronting and haunting track, Truth sees VïKÆ give a raw and emotional delivery about her personal struggles with mental health. The pre-chorus is catchy and does exactly what a pre-chorus should do, makes way for a head bopping chorus. The track is short and sweet and almost comes to an abrupt end, leaving the listener wanting more. I would be interested to know what the track would have been like had it followed a traditional pop song formula with a bridge before a final chorus.

Radio friendly, second single Rumours is next. Beautiful harmonies make way for a soaring, sing-along chorus. VïKÆ does the same thing she’s done with Truth and keeps the track to the 2.30 mark with no bridge in sight. However, the result is still a euphoric, uplifting track.

Fourth track Virus is a slower track but one that still packs a punch when it moves out of its half time tempo in the chorus. Fifth track Landmine showcases VïKÆ’s impressive vocal range.

The EP finishes with title track Finelines. The perfect conclusion to the EP and another highlight, Finelines is a bass heavy bop, which touches on the binge drinking culture in New Zealand and toxic friendships. VïKÆ’s breathy vocals in the verses lead into a bold chorus which paints a picture of the chaos that can be a night on the town.

Finelines proves that VïKÆ is definitely one to keep an eye on as she makes her mark on the New Zealand music scene. There is something new to be discovered nearly every time you listen to each track, with layers of noise hidden beneath the big sounding production. VïKÆ’s hands on, DIY approach to her music, artistry and image has resulted in something truly unique. VïKÆ will be supporting the EP with her first New Zealand tour alongside pop artist PRINS, with shows in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Ohakune in the coming weeks. If her live shows are anything like her EP, then audiences are sure to be in for a treat.