Admiral Freebee – The Gardener (2021)

I buried my name in the soil / to see what would grow from the silence.

Admiral Freebee’s 2021 release, The Gardner, marks a significant evolution in the Belgian singer-songwriter’s artistic journey. Known for his gravelly voice, rootsy rock sensibility, and literate songwriting, Tom Van Laere (aka Admiral Freebee) takes a bold step into more experimental and textural territory on this record.

A Radical Reinvention

Gone are the Americana guitars and Springsteen-esque vibes that characterized earlier albums. The Gardner is a sonic shift: moody, atmospheric, and laden with synths, ambient soundscapes, and electronic beats. Produced in collaboration with Jason Falkner (noted for work with Beck and Air), the album leans into a sound that’s more in line with Radiohead or the darker corners of David Bowie’s later catalog.

Lyrical Introspection

Lyrically, The Gardner is dense, poetic, and introspective. There’s a clear thematic thread of growth, decay, isolation, and renewal — all motifs that mirror the album’s title and sonic palette. Songs like “Don’t Tell Me I Don’t Know” and “Coming of the Light” explore personal transformation and disillusionment, often with a cryptic tone.

The album feels like a diary of psychological states, written during a long night of the soul. There’s vulnerability here, but it’s wrapped in mystery — nothing is served plainly, and that’s part of the appeal.

Highlights

• “Coming of the Light” – A standout track that pairs philosophical lyrics with a haunting, cinematic build-up.
• “The Gardener” – A brilliant song that defines the mood of the album with dark synths and minimalist arrangement.
• “No One Else” – Brings a slight touch of melody reminiscent of his earlier work, acting as a bridge between past and present.

Final Thoughts

The Gardner is not an easy listen — and that’s a compliment. It requires attention and openness. This is the sound of an artist shedding his skin and embracing reinvention. Some fans of Admiral Freebee’s earlier rock records might find this change jarring, but those willing to follow him into more abstract terrain will be rewarded with an album that’s both challenging and rewarding.

Tracklist

A1. This Dream Of You
A2. Digital Blues
A3. Coming Of The Light
A4. No Ordinary Moments
B1. Walking Each Other Home
B2. Not In It 4 Love
B3. On A Day Like This One
B4. The Wonder Of Life
C1. The Gardener
C2. No One Can Stop Me Now
C3. There Is Nothing Wrong With You
C4. Rising In Love
D1. Dream Avenue
D2. Looking For Love In All The Wrong Places
D3. Feel It All

Vinyl specs

Streaming

Links

https://www.discogs.com/release/20834494-Admiral-Freebee-The-Gardener

https://www.waxlog.com/collection/cave/artist-a/release/1651418777/admiral-freebee-the-gardener