Short week – only 41submissions this week (everyone was off for New Years)
LOUD, single by X. Ari. X.Ari is a loud voice for mental health and LGBTQIA rights and this song hits home. It turns pain into power, revealing that her own disorders are not a handicap but her superpower. It starts with the famous X. Ari “scream” and then takes you into her world, with grab-you beats and to the point lyrics. A powerful trip, but one that leads to illumination. Stream on Spotify.
A Ciegas, album by Paula Arenas. Her third album, A Ciegas (Blindly) has been nominated for four Latin GRAMMY® Awards and one GRAMMY® Award for Best Latin Album for its gentle, angelic lyrics and its instrumentation that just soaks into your soul. The 8 songs on the album, each a gem, were crafted with Latin GRAMMY®-winning Engineer and Latin GRAMMY®-nominated Producer and Composer Maria Elisa Ayerbe. Stream on all major platforms. Spanish.
Mango Season, álbum by BALTHVS. The Columbian trio of Balthazar Aguirre (Guitar) Johanna Mercuriana (Bass) and Santiago Lizcano (Drums) have brought us a dream pop instrumental album, just this side of psychedelia. Put this one on all day. Minimal vocals – just peace and music. Stream on Spotify.
Alarm Clock, single/video by Sheryl Crow. Another triumph of clever, forceful songwriting, legendary musicianship, and lyrics that point right at everyone while telling her story. So much fun. Stream on all major platforms.
Walk of Honor, single by Pamela Hopkins. The million-streaming country music artist’s “Walk of Honor,” is personal, challenging , and topical, tackling organ donation and drunk driving. Her beautiful voice and solid country vibe bring this message home. Stream on Spotify.
Ya me voy, (I’m going now) single by The Mexican Standoff. The famous comedic, Mexican-American socially conscious, comedic band does it again. With a video based on a real Mexican standoff (but with toy guns and fake mustaches), Nancy Sanchez, Fernada Ulibarra, and Alih Jey once again tickle your funny bone while filling your ears with fun music. Video on YouTube; stream on Spotify Spanish.
Patrick O’Heffernan
Banner photo: Maria Elisa Ayerbe (left) and Paula Arenas (right) in the studio
