He “Tropical Jesus” of 2020 continues with its first intentions and embraces – as always, full of color – mysticism. With “Magical realism” (2024), Carlos Sadness lands on an album with a more produced sound, with more layers, even with darker and heavier melodies as the end of the album approaches. This progression outlines a path devised by the artist himself, who has actively participated in the production of this latest work, and leads towards a more exciting journey through music. And he has not only participated in the production, as Sadness has even been in charge of the illustration for the album cover.
“Magical realism” It is a constant demand. It is the search for magic in the middle of the songs, which are always hidden in the purest everyday life. Therefore, Sadness affects concepts such as tenderness, kindness or empathy. It is a war cry against the ephemeral, individual and superfluous. As a feminine and mature voice says at the end of “Good little person”: ““Tenderness is an act of rebellion”. And, in fact, the Catalan embraces the sincerity of intensity to declare himself in favor of true and shared feelings.
As it draws on the literary movement of magical realism, the settings take on special relevance in each song. Through the lyrics, melodies and rhythms of each song of “Magical realism”, Carlos Sadness It transports the listener to different places to set the story it portrays. As he himself defines, it is about playing at being a painter and drawing landscapes with what his songs tell. And, in the midst of this pictorial maelstrom, the stars play a special role that acts as a common element for all the songs on the album. A clear example is “Big Bang”, that opens the album and draws a clear metaphor: the creation of love as the creation of a new universe. In this song, the presence of the stars is evident; In the rest, you have to pay a little more attention.
The three collaborations—three Mexican women—of “Magical realism” They are a complete success, since each song adapts perfectly to the voices and styles of their respective performers. Ximena Sariñana contributes to “Whatever” a melancholic nuance to a song that functions as a letter for an inevitable farewell, while Melissa Robles builds on ““Morrita Linda” a romantic softness that transports directly to the roots of Mexican music and Carla Morrison caresses the sad and tender “Little love” with his voice, as light and full of truth as always.
“Magical realism” It is a round, worked album with a good sound and a well-crafted production, loaded with truth and feeling, always in line with the imagery and intention of any Sadness project.
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