Buscabulla’s Journey Through Love and Art in “Se Amaba Así”

Partners in Life and Music

Raquel Berrios and Luis Alfredo Del Valle, the creative duo behind Buscabulla, have garnered attention for their unique sound that seamlessly blends humid synth exercises with soft-focus ballads. Their debut album, Regresa, released in 2020, served as a reflective piece on their native Puerto Rico following the devastation of Hurricane Maria. With pensive lyrics and relaxed grooves, the album marked a significant breakthrough for the duo, leading to a notable collaboration with Bad Bunny on his 2022 hit album, Un Verano Sin Ti.

A Fresh Perspective in “Se Amaba Así”

Buscabulla’s second album, Se Amaba Así, delves into the intricacies of their own relationship with unprecedented candor. The project shifts focus to address friction points in their partnership, encapsulating the emotional turmoil that accompanies love. The duo’s signature airy synchronicity between Berrios’ soprano and Del Valle’s instrumentation remains intact, but the album’s themes of colonization and self-doubt evolve into more personal reflections.

Exploring Emotional Depths

The songwriting process for Se Amaba Así proved to be an emotional journey for the pair. Berrios’ lyrics, often drawing from the melodramatic Latin power ballads of her youth, explore themes of trust and codependency. Lines like “A veces quiero ser yo/Porque siempre somos nosotros” (“Sometimes I want to be me/Because we are always us”) reveal the complexities of their shared identity.

Musical Highlights

Tracks such as “Te Fuiste” showcase a push-and-pull dynamic in their relationship, while the standout “Miraverahí” combines disco elements with a sturdy bassline, highlighting the tension of unreciprocated affection. The song delicately balances fun, danceable beats with poignant lyrics that threaten to unravel the status quo.

Del Valle’s Vocal Debut

For the first time, Del Valle takes lead vocals on the album, providing a counterpoint to Berrios’ perspectives. In “El Empuje,” his crooning baritone expresses a willingness to risk everything for love, offering a nuanced balance to Berrios’ earlier explorations of uncertainty. The title track captures their shared commitment to breaking cycles of emotional distance, as they admit to repeating patterns learned from their parents.

Finding Renewal

As the album progresses, the couple navigates through their struggles toward a sense of renewal. The track “Mi Marido” stands out as a heartfelt declaration of love, incorporating a sample from Paquitín Soto’s “Se Vende un Corazón.” The song blossoms into a rich tapestry of guitar, drums, and güiro, culminating in Berrios’ radiant chorus that expresses unwavering affection.

Turning Trouble into Art

Se Amaba Así exemplifies how Buscabulla transforms personal challenges into artistic nourishment. Their ability to weave emotional turmoil into captivating melodies and lyrics creates a profound listening experience that resonates with many.

Conclusion

Buscabulla’s Se Amaba Así is a testament to the power of vulnerability in music. By addressing their relationship’s complexities with honesty and creativity, Berrios and Del Valle not only deepen their artistic expression but also invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and connection. This album marks a significant evolution in their sound, promising an engaging exploration of the trials and triumphs of partnership.

FAQs

What themes are explored in “Se Amaba Así”?

The album delves into themes of trust, codependency, and the emotional complexities of relationships, drawing from the duo’s personal experiences.

How does Del Valle’s vocal contribution change the dynamic of Buscabulla’s music?

Del Valle’s lead vocals provide a contrasting perspective to Berrios’ lyrics, enriching the album’s narrative by offering insights into the male viewpoint in their relationship’s dynamics.

What is the significance of the title track, “Se Amaba Así”?

The title track reflects on inherited relationship patterns and the desire to break free from them, showcasing the duo’s commitment to growth and renewal in their partnership.

How does the album connect to Puerto Rican culture?

Buscabulla infuses their music with elements of Puerto Rican culture, drawing from their experiences and incorporating traditional sounds and references, which adds depth to their lyrical themes.