Joel Veena – “Cardinal”

Joel Veena’s new album “Cardinal” blends the intricate world of Hindustani classical music with bold, contemporary textures, and to be honest with you, it’s a trip worth taking, and you will enjoy it. The tracklist jumps between meditative depth and raw experimentation. Standouts for me are “Just Give Thanks” and the energizing “Resistance”, which tosses electronic beats into the mix without feeling forced. To be honest, it’s one of the best albums I have heard this month so far.

The vocals are sparse but purposeful, adding texture and intention rather than dominating the sound. They act more like another instrument in the mix than a centerpiece, and that restraint works in the album’s favor. The cover art for “Cardinal” is beautiful, and I love it.

If this is your first time hearing Joel Veena, now’s the time to fix that. Follow him on social media and keep tabs. He’s got more coming through the rest of 2025, and based on “Cardinal”, it’s going to be worth it.