“Every so often, an album arrives that does not seek to be admired so much as understood. This effort by Bulgarian-Canadian vocalist, songwriter, and poet Gergana Velinova, titled Free, fits that category. Velinova spent five years writing the album’s ten songs. There is not a wasted word or an unnecessary note.”

— ALL ABOUT JAZZ — Pierre Giroux — August 9, 2026

“A stunning vocalist, all the songs on this album are her own compositions and encompass a wide variety of styles. The title track is worth the price of the album alone — so gorgeous it literally brought tears to my eyes upon first listen.”

— WOMEN IN JAZZ MEDIA — Bradley M. Stone — August 2026

“One can see why this album is generating excitement. It is ambitious, richly layered, and clearly the work of a serious musician who has something to say.”

— PARIS MOVE — Frankie Pfeiffer, Editor in Chief — June 2026

“Velinova’s voice is undeniably powerful and technically accomplished, captivating audiences with her warm stage presence and soulful performances.”

— PARIS MOVE — Frankie Pfeiffer, Editor in Chief — June 2026

“Vocalist Gergana Velinova stands out among the younger jazz vocalists in that she writes her own material, while still making it sound like a jazz standard.”

— JAZZ WEEKLY — George W. Harris — June 2026

“You will hear ten original songs on this album, each one unwinding Velinova’s life like a spool of gold thread rolling across my listening room. Her songs glisten in the light and sparkle with her composer skills.”

— MAKING A SCENE — Dee Dee McNeil — June 2026

“Velinova has a gift for intimating thoughts that listeners can relate to, and delve into shared life experiences. Her openness is inviting and her musings are inspirational.”

— JAZZ2LOVE — Susan Francis — July 2026

“With Free, Gergana offers a compelling artistic statement that bridges cultures and invites audiences into a more expansive understanding of contemporary jazz—one that embraces heritage as a source of creative strength.”

— JAZZ2LOVE — Susan Francis — June 2026

“Free isn’t just an album; it’s an invitation to find beauty in wounds, and to remember that music, like love, has no boundaries. A work that celebrates resilience and the ability to be reborn note by note!”

— JAZZ IN FAMILY — June 2026

“With Free, Gergana Velinova delivers more than a collection of songs. She offers a space for reflection, healing, and connection.”

— JAZZ CHILL MUSIC — June 2026