Yeek Shines on Genre-Bending Record, Valencia

Stefan Karlberg News Co-Editor

Two years after his EP IDK Where, Filipino-American singer, songwriter and producer Yeek has released his third studio album, Valencia.

Yeek.

(Image courtesy: Zatoon Blogs)

Known for genre-defying music and captivating visuals, Yeek lets his creativity shine on the 10-track, 23-minute record. None of the tracks last longer than 3 minutes, but Yeek is still able to captivate his audience with his seamless transitions and beautiful instrumentation. Yeek’s vulnerable lyrics about love, heartbreak and his struggles with anxiety, combined with his unique instrumentals create an immersive and powerful listening experience.

Valencia is far from a somber record, though. Songs like “Overthinking” and “M.H.” make it impossible for listeners not to bop their heads to the heavy drums and melodic synths. The record was almost entirely self-produced, save for a collaboration on the title track. His poppy synths and rap-inspired drums pair with indie rock-style guitars to create a musical space that is all his own.

Yeek refuses to stick to one sound and mood; the use of piano and guitar on “This Time,” a collaboration with Los Angelesbased R&B artist Rolls Rome, allows the listener to slow down and become fully immersed in Yeek’s lyrics surrounding his uncertainty that his romantic feelings are reciprocated. On this track, he sings, “Sunny days are better/Ride or die together/Don’t run away this time.” His echoing vocals complete the track and give the audience an intimate glimpse of his feelings of love and fear that said love is unrequited.

Yeek brings Valencia to a beautiful end on the final track, “Dirty Pillow.” Even with strong themes of anxiety on the record, he seems to find a resolution on “Dirty Pillow.” The last words the listener hears on the entire record are, “You my twin/You my slime/ You my partner/Light it up when I feel it getting darker/Who knows what I’m going through?/You know what to do.”

While he still struggles with anxiety, he has found a love he no longer doubts and in turn, is able to tackle his anxiety with his partner. These lyrics paired with trippy synths, sturdy drums, and beautiful piano melodies send listeners on their way with an air of happiness.

The record is accompanied by a music video for the title track “Valencia,” as well as a short film, “h.a.w.a.i.i.,” both written and produced by Yeek himself. The bright and captivating visuals go perfectly with the music. Both videos can be found on Yeek’s YouTube page, and Valencia can be streamed on all major platforms.