The Creation of Melt: A Journey Through Sound and Emotion
María Zardoya, the Puerto Rican vocalist known for her work with The Marías, has released her debut album under the project Not for Radio titled Melt. This collection of ten songs is set to be fully available on October 10th. The album was created in a unique environment, far from home, where the focus was on experimentation and being fully present in the moment. As ice melted beneath their feet in the snowy woods, the group found themselves immersed in the creative process, resulting in what Zardoya describes as an auditory journey that captures the essence of their experience.
The album reflects the alchemy of grief, solitude, and creative communion that defined its creation. It draws inspiration from the Gothic language, which is part of the Indo-European language family. The term “Gothic” refers to a Germanic people who played a significant role in the fall of the Western Roman Empire. While the Gothic language itself has largely disappeared, remnants of it can still be found in historical texts and references. This connection to the past adds a layer of depth to the album’s themes.
The Musical Process Behind Melt
Melt was recorded at Flying Cloud Recordings in Upstate New York, where American musician Sam Evian and producer Gianluca Buccellati collaborated to create the album’s sound. The recording process was spontaneous, with the musicians unplugging from the outside world and immersing themselves in nature and melody. This approach led to a collection of songs that blend intimate and psychedelic folk elements, capturing the essence of love’s decay and rebirth.
The album features tracks such as Slip, Water on Your Nose, Vueltas, Magnet, and Not the Only One, each offering a fresh perspective on the band’s sound. These songs are described as birdcalls that provide a new patois to claps, high hats, and filters, showcasing the band’s evolving style.
The Marías: A Rising Force in Indie Pop
The Marías, the band behind Zardoya’s work, has gained recognition for their ability to blend English and Spanish in their music. Their 2024 breakthrough single Submarine reached number 17 on the Billboard 200, and their first Hot 100 single, No One Noticed, marked a significant milestone for the Los Angeles-based group. The band’s lineup includes multi-instrumentalist Josh Conway, keyboardist Edward James, and guitarist Jesse Perlman, all of whom contribute to the group’s distinctive sound.
The Marías has released two EPs, Superclean Vol. I and Superclean Vol. II, as well as two studio albums, Cinema and La Vida es un Carnaval. They have also toured with notable artists such as Billie Eilish and Bad Bunny, further expanding their reach and influence.
Collaborations and Cultural Impact
The band has collaborated with various artists, including Puerto Rican Hip-Hop artist Bad Bunny on the track Otro Atardecer from his album Un Verano Sin Ti. They have also worked with Tainy and Young Miko on the song Mañana, which showcases their versatility and ability to blend different musical styles. Additionally, The Marías has partnered with Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco on the Latin Airplay-chart topper Ojos Tristes, highlighting their growing presence in the global music scene.
The Legacy of Gothic Language
While the Gothic language has largely faded into history, its influence can still be felt in modern culture. The Skeireins, a few folios of commentary on the Gospel of John, is one of the few surviving texts written in Gothic. This connection to the past adds a unique dimension to Melt, as Zardoya continues to explore the boundaries of sound and meaning through her work.
Conclusion
Melt is more than just an album; it is a testament to the power of creativity and the ability to transform personal experiences into universal art. With its rich layers of sound and emotion, the album represents a bold new chapter for María Zardoya and The Marías. As they continue to push the boundaries of their music, the future looks bright for this innovative and talented group.