Exploring Madrid’s Experimental Pop Scene
The Rise of AMORE and Rusia-IDK
From a distance, the coverage of Madrid’s vibrant experimental pop scene seems to revolve around Rusia-IDK, a dynamic five-member group that emerged in 2019, featuring standout talents like Ralphie Choo and Rusowsky. However, equally important is AMORE, the 25-year-old María Moreno Martinez from Murcia, who has been making waves in the music world since nearly the same time. Her eclectic body of work seamlessly blends genres, incorporating elements of flamenco, hip-hop, glitchcore, and Latin folk.
Top Hits, Ballads, etc…: An Overview
AMORE’s latest release, Top Hits, Ballads, etc…, is accompanied by a short film depicting a surreal silent disco involving a dozen women on a smoke-filled soundstage. This artistic endeavor mirrors the album’s unique approach, which balances high-concept ideas with limited production resources. Listening to the tracks, one can almost visualize the neon gaffer’s tape lines marking the space.
A Compilation of Sounds
From its title, Top Hits, Ballads, etc… feels more like a compilation than a traditional debut album. The tracks “Last Maria on Earth” and “Querió” exemplify this diverse soundscape. “Last Maria” offers strummy indie rock, enriched by a fluttering flute and Martínez’s ethereal vocals, while “Querió” embraces the contemporary interpretations of traditional Spanish folk, featuring castanets and syncopated jota rhythms.
Musical Texture and Production
The album maintains a consistent sonic atmosphere, hovering above 70 Hz without any tracks that truly throb or wobble. The song “I Gotta Feeling” aspires to be a party anthem akin to a Black Eyed Peas hit but instead settles into a Neptunes-inspired soundscape, where Martínez and producer Dinamarca create a pixelated paradise filled with finger snaps, flutes, and airy basslines.
Thematic Depth: Queer Breakup Chronicles
Much of the narrative within Top Hits revolves around the complexities of a queer breakup. The guitar ballad “Amiga” captures a sense of nostalgia and regret, as Martínez reflects on a friendship that transformed into something deeper. The track concludes with a self-remix, layering her voice into silky ribbons over a muted kick drum.
Emotional Contrasts
In “Peléame!!!,” AMORE’s voice commands a lover to “fight me, light it up,” while “Delirio” juxtaposes a playful groove with lyrics that depict love as “una prisión” (a prison) and “un castigo” (a punishment). The album’s narrative arc suggests a dramatic conclusion, reminiscent of a telenovela, culminating in an unexpected gunshot.
Balancing Drama with Playfulness
Despite the album’s serious themes, AMORE infuses humor and lightness into her work. The track “Juvenil” ends with canned applause, while “Amore I,” a collaboration with Toronto-based producer Loukeman, features chiptune elements. The interlude titled “dont mess with mr in-between” utilizes synth presets reminiscent of C418’s iconic Minecraft soundtrack.
A Work in Progress
While certain songs may feel underdeveloped—like “Evangelion,” which starts as a dreamy waltz but falters due to an unintended loop—Top Hits, Ballads, etc… serves as an intriguing glimpse into AMORE’s artistic vision. The collection feels more like a series of demos than a polished album, and the ellipsis in the title hints at an ongoing journey rather than a definitive statement.
Conclusion
AMORE’s Top Hits, Ballads, etc… is a compelling entry into the Madrid experimental pop scene, showcasing her artistic versatility and emotional depth. Though it may not be a traditional debut, the album offers a delightful exploration of sound and storytelling, leaving listeners eager for what comes next.
FAQs
Who is AMORE?
AMORE is the stage name of María Moreno Martinez, a 25-year-old experimental pop artist from Murcia, Spain.
What genres does AMORE incorporate into her music?
Her music blends various genres, including flamenco, hip-hop, glitchcore, and Latin folk.
What is the concept behind Top Hits, Ballads, etc…?
The album combines high-concept ideas with limited production resources, featuring a mix of old and new tracks that explore themes of queer relationships and emotional complexity.
What can listeners expect from the sound of Top Hits?
The album has a diverse sound palette, ranging from indie rock to contemporary Spanish folk, with playful and experimental production choices.
Is Top Hits, Ballads, etc… a traditional debut album?
No, it feels more like a compilation or collection of works, showcasing AMORE’s artistic journey thus far rather than presenting a finalized concept.
