Helado Tropical
Helado Tropical
PSYCHIC HOTLINE
What is it about certain music that makes it feel like summer? For countless different aesthetic reasons, genres as disparate as Afrobeat, stoner rock, hip-hop, and bossa nova all often times feel like they just are summer—they can be warm, sun-kissed, and relaxed, making the listener feel like they’ve been sitting in the afternoon sun for too long. There’s a common misconception that such music lacks depth and merely prioritizes shaka-throwing good vibes. But Helado Tropical’s gorgeous self-titled debut is a soulful rebuttal to such claims. These nine tracks are calm, thoughtful, and effortlessly groovy—a colorful collection released at bang-on the right time of year.
The duo are avant-pop producer and vocalist Helado Negro and Fabi Reyna of LA-based Latin-electronica act Reyna Tropical. They make for an incredibly acute meeting of minds; both possess a musical vision built on house, jazz, and pop music, all infused with an eclectic Latin focus. Helado is of Ecuadorian heritage, while Reyna is Mexican. They feel of a piece with a recent surge in prominence of Central and South American electronica acts, which includes everything from classy house and techno names like Sofia Kourtesis and Ela Minus to more outré fare like Los Thuthanaka. Helado Tropical’s collaboration sits closer to the former names. This delightful debut is ultra-stylish and elegant, coursing with restrained vocals, warm beats, and warped acoustic guitars. Imagine the best sunset-adorned beach or rooftop hangout you’ve ever been to and you’re halfway there.
Each track possesses its own distinct magic, but a handful of especially heartfelt cuts stand out. “Soledad” utilizes the full audio spectrum, fusing synths, handclaps, and breathy vocals into something unique and impactful. “Tocando” is similarly unique, combining the aforementioned ingredients with heart-soaring guitars and an odd, shapeless structure—it just sort of happens in front of you, and it’s wonderful to witness. This kind of sums up the album: Every track is meticulously arranged, but never feels overly stylized or overstuffed. The vocals come and go, instruments suddenly appear and disappear. It all feels so casual and blissfully warm and welcoming; an open-minded, open-hearted collaboration that everyone should let enter into their life this summer.
