Yana – Calm Before The Storm (2022)
Known for her creativity, meaningful lyrics, and the fact that she has collaborated with the likes of Liam O Maonlai and Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Yana is building a strong reputation in the indie-folk music scene. While she hails from the Czech Republic, she has strong ties to Ireland with Irish music in her soul. Already featured twice on The Other Side Reviews, she has turned our heads; however, we are not the only ones singing her praises. To date, Yana has been featured on We Write About Music, Less Than 1000 Followers, PopFad, Edgar Allan Poets and various playlists. The latest addition to her well-received discography is the single ‘Calm Before The Storm’.
Following her single ‘Reach Out’ looking at mental health and the importance of having someone to speak to, ‘Calm Before The Storm’ explores the significance of living your life to the full because “the end might come sooner than you think.” Written as a sonic reaction to the death of fiddler and singer Jitka Suranska, the track is highly personal and intimate. Dying at age 41 from cancer, the established musician showed how short life can be and Yana tells us how important it is to live life to the full. So, I guess while the inspiration of the song is rather sad, it has a strong positive effect in the empowering lyrical message.
With a strong Irish feel, ‘Calm Before The Storm’ combines the violin, bodhrán (a traditional Irish instrument) and Yana’s dulcet vocals. Soft, smooth and calming, this almost tragic track elegantly walks the line between melancholy and empowerment. As ever, Yana presents poetic lyricism with her obscure vocals that might be compared to Amanda Palmer and Adele. Yet, while there are comparisons, Yana is difficult to define as a completely unique talent.
For more from Yana check out her official website, Facebook, Twitter and Spotify.