Vera Blue Is Entering A New Era: Talking New Music & More
A New Era
By Natalie McGowan | 30th October 2025From humble beginnings on The Voice to collaborations with Flume, and now releasing her first single in three years, Celia Pavey – better known as her moniker Vera Blue – is embracing a darker side of her artistry. Bringing her ethereal sounds to The Long Sunset stage this November, she’s set to captivate with her atmospheric performance.
You’ve got a new single out and hints of more music coming — how does this new chapter feel compared to your past releases
This chapter feels really refreshing. Every release is a marker of where I’ve been, and this one feels like stepping into something a bit darker, freer, but still deeply emotional. I’ve grown a lot as an artist since my last work, and I think you can hear that in the music; it’s more confident but also more playful.
How has your creative process shifted over time? Are you experimenting with new ways of writing or producing these days?
It’s become more instinctual. I’m less afraid to follow a darker soundscape or sit with a lyric that feels unsettling. When I started, I leaned a lot on acoustic guitar and raw songwriting. I still do that a lot, especially on my own, but I’ve been working with lots of amazing producers, which has inspired me to create differently — whether it be starting with beats or synths, or starting with experimental vocal samples and harmonies. I love collaborating in new ways, leaving more room for spontaneity and happy accidents in the studio.
Are there any key concepts or themes that have shaped your new music?
Yes, definitely. Nature always weaves its way into my music. There are themes of longing, decay, rebirth, but also themes of desire and transformation. A lot of the new songs explore the contrast between strength and fragility, chaos and stillness. Gothic romance has definitely seeped into the lyrics and production.
How do you balance vulnerability and storytelling in your music — do you ever hold things back, or do you like to lay it all out on the table?
I’m pretty open in my writing. Vulnerability is what connects me to people, so I lean into it rather than shy away. But sometimes I like to veil things in imagery; it gives the listener space to bring their own meaning to the song. I’ve found a certain confidence in just saying it as it is, not overthinking it if I want to be bold or fearless with lyrics or how I use my voice.
Were there particular genres, artists, or even non-musical influences that inspired the direction of your new work?
I’ve been inspired by electronic textures and producers who blur genres. I’ve been listening to a lot of ’90s music, especially the eras of Björk and Madonna. I also find myself being very inspired by film or TV series soundtracks — I love writing to a cinematic visual.
From The Voice to Vera Blue, looking back, do you see a clear turning point where you really stepped into your identity as an artist?
Yes, I think when I released Fingertips and Hold that was a huge turning point. I felt the electronic world allowed me to express a different part of who I am as an artist and as Vera Blue — an extension of who I am into a character that somehow still feels authentic and real.
How do you feel your sound has grown or evolved over time?
It’s become more layered. I still love raw acoustic songwriting, but now I love wrapping those stories in rich electronic and atmospheric production. I think it’s bolder, more cinematic, and closer to the world I imagine when I write.
What can fans expect from your set at The Long Sunset?
They can expect energy, honesty, and a bit of escapism. I love building sets that let people dance but also get lost in the more emotional, haunting moments. It’ll be a journey! I’m excited!
Are there any artists you’re especially excited to watch at The Long Sunset?
Yes, I’m always excited to discover new acts and connect with artists I admire. Festivals are the best for that — you get to be part of the crowd as well as the stage. I’ve always adored Boy & Bear and the way they tell stories through their music. And I love Gretta Ray; she’s the sweetest and such an amazing artist.
Do you have a pre-show ritual or mindset trick that helps ground you before stepping on stage?
I make sure I feel super grounded. I can easily get swept up with excitement and forget to breathe, so I always like to have a bit of time to just relax, sip my tea, and hang out with my band and crew before we go on stage. They make me laugh and remind me that it’s fun and such a pleasure to be able to do what we love and give people joy through music.
Music festivals often become core memories for the audience — do you have a festival performance or experience that stands out for you?
Splendour in the Grass will always feel monumental. When I performed with Flume for the first time in 2016 when he headlined, and then the following year I played my own set the day Perennial came out, it was so special. I’ve played so many amazing festivals in beautiful parts of Australia, and I’m so excited to be playing The Long Sunset to make new memories!
Catch Vera Blue’s performance at QLD Music Trails’ The Long Sunset on Saturday, 1 November. Tickets are available here.
Header: studio_hemisphere_ / Thumbnail: Dave Jenkins
