Rosalía’s Lux: Is It This Year’s Best Album?

Rosalía has solidified her status as a transformative figure in music since her rise in 2018. Born in Barcelona, she has broken convention with each project. Her latest endeavor, titled Lux, released recently, showcases her innovative spirit and artistic depth.

From Flamenco to Orchestral Pop

Rosalía first gained acclaim with her breakout album, El Mal Querer, recorded as her graduate thesis in 2018. This album combined Flamenco with modern R&B, setting a new standard in the music industry. Her follow-up, Motomami (2022), continued this trend, mixing Latin American rhythms with hip-hop, and earned her significant accolades, including album of the year at the Latin Grammys.

After a successful tour for Motomami, fans eagerly anticipated her next project. Lux does not disappoint, with its distinctive sound reflecting Rosalía’s commitment to artistic exploration.

Collaboration and Innovation

Recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra, Lux features numerous arrangements by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Caroline Shaw. This album marks a radical departure from her earlier works, fusing operatic elements with pop sensibilities.

One standout track, “Berghain,” interweaves classical themes with electronic beats. The single features a German chorus exploring existential dilemmas. Another track, “Reliquia,” showcases Rosalía’s vulnerability through a blend of electronic patterns and lyrical introspection.

Personal and Creative Evolution

Over the past three years, Rosalía has experienced significant personal changes. After ending her engagement with Puerto Rican artist Rauw Alejandro, she parted ways with her management to work with Jonathan Dickins, known for managing Adele. This period of transition informs the emotional landscape of Lux.

In “La Perla,” she expresses her feelings toward a former partner with biting lyrics set to an upbeat waltz. Meanwhile, “Focu ‘Ranni” reflects the turmoil of rejecting a life-changing commitment, drawing inspiration from the story of Saint Rosalia de Palermo.

A Quest for Meaning

The quest for spiritual fulfillment is a central theme in Lux, which translates to “light.” Tracks like “Sauvignon Blanc” highlight self-reflection, while “Divinize” captures the essence of personal ambition.

The album’s closing piece, “Magnolias,” tenderly acknowledges mortality, while “La Yagular” celebrates our shared humanity through a lens of divine connection. Rosalía ends the latter with a recording of Patti Smith urging artists to break through barriers and expectations.

The Experience of Listening to Lux

Prior to the album’s launch, Rosalía encouraged listeners to experience Lux in a focused setting, contrasting the fleeting nature of TikTok culture. “The more we are in the era of dopamine, the more I want the opposite,” she explained.

Lux embodies modern artistic expression while remaining accessible. Rosalía seamlessly blends contemporary production techniques with her operatic prowess and multilingual lyrics. Through four movements, inspired by the philosophical explorations of Simone Weil, she invites listeners into her immersive world.

In a landscape scattered with mediocre offerings, Lux stands out as a bold and original work. It encourages deep listening while celebrating Rosalía as one of the most unique artists of our time.