In a dazzling start to the new year, Valev Laube, the celebrated Estonian-American musician and composer, has finally released his highly anticipated debut album, Liminal. Available now on SoundCloud, with all major streaming platforms to follow later this month, Liminal is a sonic journey 15 years in the making. This album is Laube’s heartfelt gift to his supporters and a powerful statement of artistic maturity.

“Releasing Liminal on New Year’s Day feels like the perfect way to close one chapter and step boldly into the next,” shares Laube. “This album is a celebration of growth, transformation, and the in-between moments that define us. I’m thrilled to share these deeply personal songs with the world.”

An Album Born from Transformation

At the heart of Liminal lies a rich tapestry of contemporary folk-inspired compositions interwoven with Estonian heritage. The album features 18 tracks, including 15 original pieces and three reimagined Estonian folk tunes, meticulously crafted to resonate with listeners worldwide.

“The title Liminal reflects the transitional nature of life,” Laube explains. “These songs were written during a time when I wasn’t a child anymore, but I also didn’t feel confident calling myself an adult. Each tune captures a story, a feeling, or a moment from that liminal space.”

Track Highlights

  1. Awaken – A captivating opener that sets the tone for the journey ahead.
  2. The Tenth Game – A nostalgic nod to Laube’s early days, written for the folk band Punt in 2011.
  3. Blink Twice, If – An emotionally charged composition that leaves listeners spellbound.
  4. Tori Labajalg – A masterful reinterpretation of a traditional Estonian tune, honoring Laube’s roots.
  5. Simple Things – A poignant reminder of life’s small yet meaningful moments.

Honoring Heritage with a Modern Twist

A standout feature of Liminal is its homage to Estonian folk music, with tracks like Tori Labajalg drawing from traditional melodies. “Krista Sildoja’s teachings were instrumental in shaping my approach to this track,” says Laube. “While my version may not follow strict conventions, it’s my heartfelt celebration of our shared cultural heritage.”

Rave Reviews from Early Listeners

The response to Liminal has been overwhelmingly positive. Critics and fans alike have praised the album’s emotional resonance and innovative blend of styles:

“Valev Laube’s Liminal is an album that transcends boundaries. It’s a heartfelt masterpiece that beautifully captures the nuances of transition and growth,” raved one reviewer.

Another early listener described the experience as “an enchanting mix of the traditional and the contemporary. Valev’s ability to weave personal narratives into his music is nothing short of magical.”

One donor shared, “I’ve had The Tenth Game on repeat since I received the album. It’s powerful, nostalgic, and deeply moving.”

An Exclusive Gift for Donors

As a token of appreciation, Laube is offering early access to Liminal for supporters who donate to the album’s distribution and promotion fund. “Your contributions mean the world to me,” Laube emphasizes. “This album wouldn’t exist without the incredible generosity of my fans.” Donors can contribute any amount via PayPal and receive the full album instantly. Support the Album Here.

A New Year, A New Chapter

“Creating Liminal has been an incredible journey,” Laube reflects. “From recording rough demos on an overheating Windows XP laptop to fully mastering these tracks, this project represents my growth as an artist and as a person. I’m beyond excited for listeners to discover the stories within these songs.”

To celebrate the release, listeners can explore the album now on SoundCloud. Listen Here.

About Valev Laube

Valev Laube is an Estonian-American musician, composer, and cultural advocate whose work bridges the gap between tradition and innovation. Based in New York City, Laube’s music blends contemporary influences with folk traditions, creating a unique sound that resonates across cultures.

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