“Apskaut var arī bez rokām / Paklupt aiz zila gaisa,” sang Ainars Mielavs as the musician released a new EP containing three tracks following a six-year break from recording.
Mielavs published the new release in EP format across seventy-eight music streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, nra.lv reported. The singer last issued a full-length record titled “220 volti” in 2020 before creative momentum stalled amid the Russian military invasion of Ukraine. The new three-track collection serves as a preview for a complete album scheduled for completion in February 2027.
- Mielavs released three tracks titled “Ja es varētu,” “Atlaist ir sagaidīt,” and “Dzīves jēgas ugunskurs” on streaming platforms.
- The singer collaborated with his band, featuring guitarist Kaspars Vizulis, keyboardist Rūdolfs Macats, bassist Kristians Priekulis, and drummer Kaspars Kurdeko.
- The physical release features artwork painted by Mielavs titled “Suns ziemā” alongside an original typeface by Ilmārs Blumberg.
The new tracks were recorded at the “GEM+” studio with sound engineer Gatis Gaujeniek. The visual presentation of the EP incorporates artwork painted by Mielavs alongside original typography designed by Ilmārs Blumberg. While the current release is limited to three songs, Mielavs confirmed plans to finish the full-length studio album by February 2027.
The track “Atlaist ir sagaidīt” incorporates a translated poem by Finnish writer Heli Laaksonen, rendered into Latvian by Guntars Godiņš with explicit authorial permission.
Fans awaiting the full album do not need to wait until February to see the artist perform live. Mielavs scheduled his traditional holiday concert series at the Spīķeri Concert Hall from December 28 through December 30. Attendees at the December performances will also be able to view a small exhibition showcasing paintings created by the singer.
| Release Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Format | EP (Minialbums) |
| Streaming Platforms | 78 platforms (including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube) |
| Recording Studio | GEM+ |
| Full Album Deadline | February 2027 |
Musical direction on the new recordings provides keyboardist Macats with expanded opportunities to demonstrate his instrumental proficiency. Reviewers note that fans familiar with the singer’s catalog will find familiar stylistic elements throughout the new material. The concert series in late December at Spīķeri Concert Hall will mark the next live appearances for the ensemble.