Is Rosalía's Lux the Best Album of the Year?

Rosalía's latest album, Lux, showcases her exceptional ability to break conventions and innovate in music, as seen throughout her discography. Blending classical influences with modern pop sensibilities, Lux marks a significant evolution in her artistry, reflecting personal upheavals and a quest for spiritual fulfilment.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As of October 2023, Rosalía has released her highly anticipated fourth album, Lux, which diverges from her previous works by embracing a unique operatic style. The album has garnered significant attention for its ambitious orchestral arrangements and deep lyrical content, marking a bold new chapter in her career. Collaborating with the London Symphony Orchestra and Pulitzer Prize winner Caroline Shaw, Rosalía has crafted a sound that stands apart in today's music landscape.

Key takeaways

Lux represents a significant departure from Rosalía's earlier work, incorporating classical music influences.
The album features lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Collaborations with notable artists, including Björk, enhance the album's innovative quality.

Timeline: how we got here

Rosalía's journey to Lux has been marked by several key milestones:

2018: Released her breakthrough album, El Mal Querer, which fused Flamenco with R&B.
2022: Launched her follow-up album, Motomami, which topped global charts and was critically acclaimed.
Late 2022: Ended her engagement with reggaetón star Rauw Alejandro, which influenced the themes of Lux.
October 2023: Released Lux, showcasing a radical departure from her past works.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Lux is notable for its innovative blend of classical and contemporary influences, featuring orchestral arrangements and collaborations with artists like Björk. The album's lyrical depth addresses personal themes and reflects Rosalía's journey since her last project.

What was already established

Prior to Lux, Rosalía had already established herself as a boundary-pushing artist with her unique blend of genres, particularly showcased in her albums El Mal Querer and Motomami. Her ability to innovate while drawing from traditional Spanish music has been a hallmark of her style.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Rosalía's evolving musical style and critical acclaim contribute to a growing interest in diverse genres among UK audiences. Her innovative approach may encourage listeners to explore more avant-garde music, potentially influencing trends in the UK music market.

Businesses and jobs

The success of Lux may lead to increased opportunities for collaboration among artists and producers in the UK, fostering a creative environment that embraces genre-blending. Businesses within the music industry could benefit from the heightened interest in unique musical expressions.

Policy and regulation

As artists like Rosalía continue to break boundaries, regulatory bodies in the UK may need to consider how to support and promote diverse forms of music while ensuring fair practices in the industry. Upcoming consultations and discussions around music funding may reflect these evolving trends.

Numbers that matter

14: The number of languages Rosalía incorporates into Lux.
4: The number of movements in the album that showcase diverse musical styles.
1: The ranking of Motomami as the best-reviewed record on Metacritic in 2022.
3: The years it took to piece together Lux, reflecting the depth of the project.
1: The significant collaboration with the London Symphony Orchestra, marking a first for Rosalía.

Definitions and jargon buster

Flamenco: A traditional Spanish art form combining song, guitar playing, and dance.
R&B: Rhythm and blues, a genre that combines jazz, gospel, and blues influences.
Reggaetón: A music genre that originated in Puerto Rico, blending Latin rhythms with hip-hop and dancehall.
Chamber quartet: A musical ensemble typically consisting of four musicians, often featuring string instruments.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans and critics will likely continue to explore Lux's intricate themes and complex arrangements. Look for interviews and discussions that delve deeper into Rosalía's artistic vision.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As Lux gains traction, it may influence other artists to experiment with classical and avant-garde elements in their music. Watch for emerging collaborations that reflect this trend.

Signals to watch

Chart performance of Lux in the UK and globally.
Responses from industry critics and peers regarding the album's innovative aspects.
Potential award nominations for Lux at upcoming music award ceremonies.

Practical guidance

Do

Listen to Lux in a quiet environment to fully appreciate its intricate musical layers.
Explore previous albums by Rosalía to understand her artistic evolution.
Engage with music discussion forums to share insights about Lux's themes.

Don’t

Don’t rush through the album; take time to absorb the lyrical content and musical complexity.
Don’t limit your exploration to just one genre; be open to how different styles interconnect.

Checklist

Have you listened to Lux in a darkened room as Rosalía suggested?
Are you familiar with the themes of love and self-discovery present in the album?
Have you explored the collaborations that enrich the album's sound?

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Lux has received widespread acclaim, the reception may vary among different audiences. Some listeners may find the departure into operatic territory challenging, as it contrasts sharply with mainstream pop trends. Additionally, the album's ambitious scope may lead to differing interpretations, with some critics praising its audacity while others may view it as inaccessible.

Bottom line

Lux exemplifies Rosalía's relentless pursuit of innovation in music, combining classical elements with contemporary pop. This album not only reflects her personal journey but also challenges listeners to engage with music in a more profound way. As she continues to redefine her artistry, Rosalía remains a significant figure in the evolution of modern music.

FAQs

What genres are explored in Rosalía's album Lux?

Lux explores a unique blend of classical music, flamenco, pop, and hip-hop, showcasing Rosalía's innovative approach to genre.

How does Lux reflect Rosalía's personal journey?

The album reflects her experiences over the past few years, including her engagement breakup and quest for spiritual fulfilment.

What is the significance of the album's title, Lux?

Lux, meaning "light" in Latin, underscores the themes of enlightenment and self-discovery present throughout the album.