Rosalía's 'Los Ángeles' is the hidden gem of this Spanish artist's discography. Her first studio album, released in 2017, presents 12 songs that clearly lean into the core of Flamenco influences. Created with the composer, musician and producer Raül Refree. Rosalía's impressive introduction to the musical scene earned her a nomination for the Latin Grammys.
'Los Ángeles' is the predecessor of the album that would mark a before and after in Rosalía's career: 'El mal querer' (2018). Her first work already shows immense maturity and attention to detail in production. This album has a very distinctive and lugubrious feel, immersing the listener into the darkest depths of Spanish folklore. This work is a composition of reflection on death, and every song is based on the voice and Spanish guitar.
To those who are more used to Rosalía's most modern and recent style that incorporates elements of Pop and Reggaeton, these songs might seem too dense, as they have a sound and a sturcture that adjusts more to the classic Flamenco songs of the 60's and 70's. This just shows how versatile she is, letting herself create beautiful 6 minute long songs about death, as well as Reggaeton beat sounds.
I completely recommend checking it out, even if it is out of your comfort zone. As a Spanish person, this was out of my comfort zone too. But that is in part why I appreciate Rosalía so much as an artist. She introduced the youth of Spain to our own folklore, a style that seemed outdated and out of reach. Seeing a young artist having such a passion for both classic musicians like Lola Flores and Camarón de la Isla and also modern music definitely changed many people's point of view.
My favourite tracks of this album are 'Si Tú Supieras Compañero', 'De Plata', 'Catalina', 'Que Se Muere Que Se Muere', and 'Por Castigarme Tan Fuerte'.