The album explores loss, the deaths of Cuevas’ father and grandfather, her mission to continue the centuries old folk music traditions they taught her, and dreams for a better future in Venezuela. Cuevas’ homeland is a nation that is home to some of the richest folk music in the Americas, but has tragically also seen devastating poverty, hunger and political crises in recent decades.

The cornerstone song of Seré Libre is the title track. Translated as “I shall be free,” it is a nine-minute epic journey that showcases the musical reach of the orchestra and Eliana’s passionate performance. “That is a song I always dedicate to Venezuela,” says Cuevas, alluding to the troubled state of her homeland, “but it can be interpreted as being about finding freedom from whatever is holding you back.”

The first single from Seré Libre is “Como Llora Una Estrella,” a much-loved traditional Venezuelan number that a young Eliana used to play with her grandfather. “Although my grandfather passed away, when I am performing this song, it has a way of bringing him back to life, connecting me with his soul wherever he is”. Eliana recorded it with legendary Venezuelan guitarist Aquiles Báez on their 2020 release El Curruchá, and it is now given vivid new life by the Angel Falls Orchestra.

“We also wanted to make a point of choosing songs that accentuate Afro-Venezuelan rhythms,” explains award winning arranger, producer, conductor Jeremy Ledbetter, “To combine those with the European classical format has allowed Eliana to share with the world the cultural richness of her country.”