On ‘Lux,’ Rosalía Embraces Radical Reinvention
Rosalía’s fourth studio album, Lux, marks a bold and transformative step in her career. The album cover depicts the Catalan artist dressed in a nun’s habit, symbolizing both a literal garment and a metaphor for habit as a daily practice, reflecting the spiritual themes woven throughout the project.
A Shift from Electronic to Orchestral
Unlike the sharp, electronic sound that defined her Grammy-winning third album, Motomami, Lux places Rosalía within the warmth of an orchestra. This new direction avoids obvious pop hits, focusing instead on her voice supported by intricate ensemble arrangements.
A Spiritual and Intellectual Journey
Lux unfolds as a deeply spiritual and reflective odyssey. The album consists of 18 songs divided into four parts, each meticulously crafted with materials and references Rosalía curated over three years. This complex creation challenges listeners to engage fully, demanding attention to every note and lyric.
“Far from contemporary pop, each note and lyric demands your full attention; the reward is transcendence, even as the material nudges you to annotate like a philosophy student with a highlighter in hand.”
Rooted in Musical Tradition
Rosalía’s approach is shaped by her conservatory training. She studied vocal flamenco performance at the Catalonia College of Music, a highly selective program admitting only one student annually. This foundation informs the album's intricate and deliberate construction.
Author’s summary: Rosalía’s Lux is a bold, contemplative album that blends orchestral sound with spiritual depth, showcasing her evolution beyond contemporary pop into a richly textured artistic journey.