Cultural identity in music does not only mean using traditional sounds, but it is the ability to integrate some individual history into the common phenomenon. San Francisco-based artist Michellar accomplishes just this with her debut EP My Alma Latina, a five-song adventure that pays homage to her Spanish and Filipino heritage, but at the same time makes something entirely her own.
The first thing that stands out in this collection is that it is international, literally and sonically. The EP was recorded in San Francisco, Austin and London and has a cosmopolitan feel whilst remaining deeply rooted in tradition. Michellar has collaborated with producer Lloyd Miller in creating a sound which is more easy to digest within a Latin format yet with a modern contemporary feel and as such, the music itself is equally nostalgic yet new and fresh.
The best song is titled “Ave Maria”, which demonstrates the thoughtful attitude of the song writer to the cultural interpretation. Instead of merely reciting the conventional prayer, she turns it into universal contemplation on togetherness and strength. It is a respectful innovation of this sort that makes the whole thing shine, she does not steal the traditions but really pays respect to them through her perspective.
Michellar also has an impressive vocal range vocally, as she goes from the wistful contemplation of the California Fields to punchy effervescence of Samba With Me. There is also a sincerity to her voice in every song whether she is discovering her vulnerabilities in love on the track If It Is Only for One Night or her excursion into the brooding depths of the track the Deep with Christina Rntd.
The quality of the production is to be commended as it has a coherent vision despite having been recorded in different places. All the songs have their own character yet form the whole storyline of the EP. The orchestration wisely combines the classical elements with contemporary touches, resulting in textures that are rich and accessible at the same time.
What makes “My Alma Latina” work is the fact that it has a pure root, it is the true passion of Michellar to express her love to the culture through music. This is not cultural tourism; it is a very personal artistic statement that makes the listeners see the beauty of Latin musical traditions with new eyes.
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