B-Side Guys

Greek avant-pop artist VASSIŁINA has crafted a sonic odyssey that transcends the boundaries of pop and electronic music with her highly anticipated album, “Femmeland.” Released on April 12th through Inner Ear Records, this 13-track collection is a deeply introspective exploration of self-healing, acceptance, and the transformative power of embracing one’s true self.

Drawing inspiration from the Greek mythological figure Circe, VASSIŁINA weaves a tale of personal growth and liberation. The album’s art direction mirrors Circe’s journey, from her fall and renunciation of her father, “The Sun,” to her emergence as a mortal on her mythical island, Femmeland. This narrative serves as a powerful metaphor for VASSIŁINA’s own journey of self-discovery and the shedding of societal expectations.

The album opens with the pulsating “R U Ready,” setting the stage for the emotional rollercoaster that follows. Tracks like “I Think I’m Dying Here” and “Crooked” delve into the complexities of mental health, chronic illness, and past traumas, with VASSIŁINA’s haunting vocals and dark electronic beats creating an atmosphere of raw vulnerability. The lead single, “Crooked,” directed by Giorgos Athanasiou, visually depicts Circe’s fall and the beginning of VASSIŁINA’s personal journey.

As the album progresses, songs like “20 Miles,” “Thunder,” and “Cold September” showcase VASSIŁINA’s ability to balance introspection with infectious pop hooks. The production, aided by collaborators such as TOTALWERK, Bhukhurah, and Saber Rider, is a masterful blend of dark electronic influences and pop aesthetics, creating a sonic landscape that is both immersive and emotionally resonant.

The album’s title track, “Femmeland,” is a particularly poignant moment. Written in response to the numerous femicides in Greece, VASSIŁINA creates a metaphorical safe space for her friends and all femininities. The song envisions a harmonious island where nymphs and femininities dwell, and any threatening men are magically transformed into animals. It’s a powerful statement of solidarity and a call for a world where women can exist without fear.

Other standout tracks include the Greek-language “2 Kisses,” which explores the struggles of coexistence and finding harmony amidst shared challenges, and “Hypochondria,” a hauntingly beautiful meditation on the anxiety and isolation of chronic illness. The album closes with the aptly titled “Cheers,” a bittersweet celebration of the journey thus far and a toast to the future.

Lyrically, “Femmeland” is a testament to VASSIŁINA’s growth as a songwriter. She fearlessly tackles complex themes of mental health, loss, and trauma while also celebrating the strength and resilience of the feminine spirit. Her words are at once deeply personal and universally resonant, inviting listeners to find solace and empowerment in their own journeys of self-discovery.

Visually, the album is a stunning complement to the music. The art direction, led by VASSIŁINA and Vinyl Face, with contributions from Erifili Doukeli, Contino, and Costas Simos, creates a rich and immersive world that brings the mythological themes to life. The music videos for “Crooked” and “2 Kisses” are particularly striking, with their dark, symbolic imagery and powerful performances from VASSIŁINA.

“Femmeland” is more than just an album; it’s a transformative experience that invites listeners to embrace their inner voices and find strength in their true selves. VASSIŁINA has created a mythical landscape where the struggles of the modern world are met with the timeless wisdom of Greek mythology, and the result is a work of art that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

As a prominent figure in the avant-pop scene of Athens, VASSIŁINA continues to push the boundaries of the genre with her unique blend of pop aesthetics and dark electronic influences. “Femmeland” is a testament to her growth as an artist and her ability to craft sonic tales that are both emotionally powerful and sonically innovative.

In a world where the voices of women and marginalized communities are often silenced or ignored, “Femmeland” is a beacon of hope and empowerment. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is strength to be found in embracing our true selves and standing in solidarity with one another.

VASSIŁINA’s “Femmeland” is a mythical journey of self-discovery and empowerment that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world. It’s a work of art that demands to be experienced, felt, and celebrated. And in a music landscape that often prioritizes surface-level trends over genuine emotion, it’s a much-needed reminder of the transformative power of music.