RUBIO - “Llorar"

SXSW 2024 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 7

Pairs Well With…Rosalia, Lido Pimienta, Francisca Velenzuela

Based in Latin R&B, RUBIO takes that mold and experiments in slightly psychedelic ways, chilled-out pop with light bounce and detailed depth. Her latest record is Venus & Blue, a deep grooved album of mysterious plains and spaced out zones. There are some dance-oriented tracks like “Montana Rusa” here as well, balancing Venus & Blue by trekking in undiscovered waters. Putting a hypnotic lens to times both fluid and intense, RUBIO uses textures to strong effect without overdoing it. The end result finds a unique spot for RUBIO to create, putting on many shoes across this eclectic effort. (Kevin McStravick)