Single Review: Truth

Ukrainian born New Zealand vocalist and songwriter Vikae, also known as Veronika Bell, was based in Dunedin performing in a duo called VTMNK, until her Auckland home called.

Truth is the first single from Vikae, and it opens with atmospheric air noises before Bell’s crystal clear voice chimes in with the first verse: “Run run run, I fall into nothing, dreaming of falling who am I becoming? Run run run, away from myself, wishful thinking, but there’s something else”.

Then at just 27 seconds in, the electronic beats kick in at the song’s first pre-chorus, and then chorus – Truth has an excellent pop music structure, making it very catchy.

The production in Truth is by Missy, also known as Abigail Knudson, and it’s slicker than black ice on southern roads in winter. The song sounds work really well, and it’s not overworked.

Veronika Bell has some challenges in her personal life, with both her mental and physical health being an issue at times. The lyrics in Truth reflect her struggles, but are in no way maudlin or self-pitying, just questioning, searching for answers.

Her voice is so strong and confident on this recording, and musically it reminds me of Strawpeople, with elements of 90’s trip-hop, yet with enough innovation, and painted with a modern day palate for it to be super fresh. It has hit-song written all over it. Be among the first to say “yeah, Vikae, I remember them when they were starting out” and listen to this track today.