Valeree Fights Trauma with Vulnerability in Latest LP, “Interrupted”
It is finally out. Valeree’s latest album has just been released, and it is as rich in sound as it is in the emotions it contains. The album is a collection of songs, each one treated individually to transmit the intensity of every chapter in the life of a person who has had to deal with mental health issues, and her way to recovery by accepting herself just as she is and admitting her own vulnerability.
Megan Mortensen, better known in the music industry as Valeree, is a queer artist originally from Pittsburgh but currently established in Los Angeles. Her creativity always breaks the mold of conventional to convey the deepest emotions through her lyrics and sounds. When shuffling through her collection of songs, listeners can find from danceable groovy songs, to intimate R&B and jazz-influenced pop. Her lyrics, on the other hand, are more consistent. She shares the findings of her introspection with sensibility and boldness. Putting her verses and melodies together results in songs that are ready to become mainstream hits, but can also help you walk through difficult moments.
Throughout her career, she has published multiple singles and two EPs that have gotten her a nomination for Best Pop EP at the Independent Music Awards and have reached virality on TikTok. The latest step in her career has been the release of her first LP, “Interrupted.”
Valeree has used this conceptual album to explore her troublesome times dealing with mental health, trauma, addiction, and approaching vulnerability appropriately as a queer woman. Written in a span of several years, Valeree created a chronological journey that portrays her story dealing with PTSD which was unknown for many years, addiction and more. In all this emotional narrative, for Valeree it was very important to depict all her complications through the perspective of a woman. She says, “As I am both a woman and a feminist, the struggles and realities of being a woman in this world are woven throughout the album as well, which was not even really intentional”.
Sonically, hitting play to “Interrupted” is taking a trip from lively grooves to passionate ballads. The influences are sometimes evident, like the inspiration from Fiona Apple in the highs and lows of the unpredictable tempo in “The Key.” And sometimes unclear like in “Don’t Wanna Grow Up,” where it just seems that the anxiety that comes from growing up, expectations, and unhealthy comparisons took control of the sound, finally fading into an exhausted and meditative outro. “Worth Remembering” was inspired by groovy vibes that make it feel energetic and fun while describing a night of excess and lack of control. However, the album does not focus on trauma only. Valeree shares, “It’s only now that it is finished and I’ve had a bit of space from the creative process that I’ve realized what it’s truly about – vulnerability.”
Valeree has poured her soul into “Interrupted,” crafting an intensely personal and captivating album. As she candidly shares, “This album is the most vulnerable I’ve ever been in my music and the most openly I’ve talked about some of the darkest experiences of my life.” Her courage is evident in every note. The album is a poignant reflection for those grappling with addiction or trauma, but its universal themes and exquisite artistry make it a compelling listen for anyone seeking a deeply moving musical experience.
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