The new album “Lux” by Rosalía presents a captivating blend of ambition and refinement that calls for a focused listening experience rather than sheer awe. This concept record, characterized by its intricate themes, portrays the Spanish pop artist delving into the lives of saints and martyrs, employing over a dozen languages. The arrangements are bolstered by the London Symphony Orchestra, aiming to create a musical experience that transcends our fast-paced digital world.
Rosalía’s latest work stands in contrast to fleeting TikTok trends, suggesting a shift towards deeper pleasure principles suitable for the era of artificial intelligence. Amidst a landscape where technology often threatens human curiosity and critical thinking, “Lux” emerges as a refreshing alternative, inviting listeners to engage more thoughtfully with music.
This evolution in Rosalía’s artistry may echo back to her 2022 album “Motomami,” which fused flamenco, electro, and reggaeton while pushing the boundaries of musical styles. With “Lux,” she adopts a different approach, opting for a playful seriousness that enhances her multilingual expression. Whether singing in Arabic, German, Hebrew, or Mandarin, Rosalía successfully navigates the complex emotional terrain of faith and devotion, all while maintaining a whimsical spark in her delivery.
The album features moments of sheer joy, particularly when Rosalía humorously breaks the fourth wall, as seen in tracks like “Mio Cristo Piange Diamanti” where she gives insights into the music-making process amidst grand orchestral finishes. Her playful demeanor continues in “La Perla,” where she adds a light-hearted giggle after intense crescendos, showcasing her versatility as an artist who balances gravity with levity.
Described as indulgent, “Lux” occasionally borders on overwhelming with its bold production and intricate soundscapes, drawing parallels to cinematic experiences. The collaboration with Björk and Yves Tumor on “Berghain” exemplifies this cinematic influence, presenting a dramatic and lavish auditory experience that can be both engaging and exhausting.
Ultimately, “Lux” is a daring exploration of sound and emotion, blending Hollywood-influenced sound design with Rosalía’s unique artistic voice. It challenges listeners to engage more deeply with music in a world increasingly dominated by surface-level consumption—an inviting call for reflection and deeper connection in these complex times.