V.E.N! returns with “Waking Up In The Night,” a six-track EP that merges melodic power pop, alternative rock and progressive influences into a collection defined by introspection, energy and atmospheric detail. Virtual Emotions Network is the new project of Spanish musician Edu Campoy. The sound of the group balances an easily accessible melody with deeper musical ideas, inspired by 60s pop, Britpop, post-punk and alternative rock. This release is a colourful yet thoughtful affair over its 20 minute running time, flitting between energetic guitar arrangements and more reflective moments. What’s particularly interesting about the EP is that it manages to take on personal and spiritual questions without losing the directness of good pop songwriting. For us, it’s an invitation to explore the feelings and thoughts that so often come when the world goes quiet.
The trip kicks off with “Connection,” immediately nailing the EP’s identity with a blend of melodic immediacy and introspective atmosphere. As the focus track, it’s the balance at the creative heart of V.E.N!, taking an accessible musical approach and marrying it with a more thoughtful emotional dimension. The song is a good introduction to the ideas of the project and there is something purposeful about the way it does this that makes it a good place to start for anyone who is just coming across Edu Campoy’s work. Next up is "Break The Compass," a title that hints at independence and the ability to question familiar directions. It’s a chance to spread the EP’s alternative rock wings, while still holding onto the melodic elements that make V.E.N!’s songwriting so accessible. An interesting transition is that from connection to separation, moving us from the importance of human relationships to the ambiguity of finding our own way. Next, “The Scared Animal” adds another psychological layer, hinting at vulnerability, instinct and the complicated feelings that influence how we react to the world around us.
The journey continues with “Crossing The Last Valley”, a title that gives the collection a strong sense of transition and perseverance. Whereas the previous song was from a more introspective point of view, this chapter is the opposite; it suggests moving through difficult experiences and the potential to reach something beyond them. Then in “Evolution” the concept is expanded on, focusing the experience on personal growth and change. It fits in very well with the broader themes of the EP of identity, change and human consciousness. “The Home Of The New Man”, the final choice, leaves us with a particularly intriguing concept, one that speaks of renewal and the possibility of building a different future from the experiences that came before. It’s placement gives the collection a contemplative final perspective, uniting the personal and socially conscious ideas that help define V.E.N!’s artistic identity.
“Waking Up In The Nite” sees Edu Campoy continue to mould V.E.N! into a project in which the melodic songwriting and meaningful ideas coexist comfortably. The EP’s six song format keeps the experience focused, while the blend of power pop, alternative rock and progressive influences gives the material room to explore different emotional directions. The project is about atmosphere and memorable melodies and the questions behind the songs, rather than just musical complexity. If you like independent rock that combines accessibility with introspection, this release is a good introduction to the creative world of Virtual Emotions Network.
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