Nicki Nicole, Argentina's musical prodigy, recently unveiled her third studio album "ALMA." This 10-track compilation, a testament to her unprecedented talent, serves as a striking tableau of her personal journey of healing, or "sanación," as termed in her native language.
- Listen to the album here.
Harper's Bazaar hailed her as a "musical powerhouse," and this album lends credence to the praise. "ALMA," which translates to "soul," is a sonic experimentation that weaves together a diverse palette of reggaetón beats, irresistible electro-pop and velvety ballads.
"'ALMA' encapsulates life's darkness, fullness and happiness," Nicki shared in an interview. "So many people I admire contributed to it, both producers and other industry figures. It took a while to craft, but it was worth every moment."
The singer's self-exploration and her ensuing emotional rebirth are key themes throughout the album. “I started creating this album believing it would save me,” she said. This intimate narrative, which is as much a concept album as it is a genuine chronicle, centers on the intricate connection between spirit, heart and mind, all encased within the recurring motif of a triangle. This symbol further represents a harmonious coexistence of these facets, cultivated with thought and care.
Nicki Nicole, Milo J - DISPARA
Nicki also recently dropped a video for her new hip-hop fused single, “DISPARA ***” featuring MILO J.
The track encapsulates Nicki's resistance against those who attempt to replicate her artistry, her invulnerability to their attempts at tarnishing her spirit. Her lyrical prowess shines through in the lines, “I'm still shining, even if you want to put out my light” or “Yo sigo brillando, aunque quieras apagar mi luz.”
Pouring Her 'ALMA' Out
The journey through "ALMA" begins with the enthralling ballad "Ya No," a poignant narrative about self-love and embracing solitude.
“I’m the one I’m going to spend the rest of my life with. I can’t not be able to be with myself,” she shares. The album then sways between the catchy rhythm of “8 AM” with Puerto Rican rapper Young Miko, to the hypnotic R&B tones of “Se va 1 llegan 2,” and the infectious dance beats of “Caen las Estrellas” with fellow Argentinian YSY A. Nicki even includes a cover of Rodrigo Amarante’s bolero “Tuyo,” showcasing her powerful vocals and emphasizing her message of self-discovery and empowerment.
For Nicki, the road to stardom has been a whirlwind. Since her breakout hit “Wapo Traketero” in 2019, she has accumulated an explosive fanbase with a staggering 14.7 million followers on Instagram. Her discography is laden with high-profile collaborations, including tracks with Camilo, Christina Aguilera, Becky G, and Rauw Alejandro, among others.
Nicki's accolades are as diverse as her music. She has garnered multiple Latin Grammy nominations, bagged a Premios Lo Nuestro award for Best New Artist, and delivered critically acclaimed performances on platforms such as "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" and Coachella. Her role as the only female judge on the Netflix competition show "La Firma" is another notable feather in her cap. The show, which seeks to discover the next Latin superstar, features her alongside prominent artists like Rauw Alejandro, Yandel, Tainy, and Lex Borrero.
In "ALMA", Nicki Nicole presents her journey of healing and self-discovery in a way that truly resonates. The album’s first offering, “NO voy a llorar :'),” echoes her resolution of personal strength in setting romantic boundaries, showcasing her exploration of solitude. The New York Times aptly labeled it a “preemptively defensive breakup song” with Latin R&B sprinkled with “a whiff of hyperpop helium.”
Listen: Latin R&B Sensation Nicki Nicole Drops 'No Voy A Llorar :')'
A second single, “qué le pasa conmigo?,” her collaboration with Spanish rapper RELS B, explores the turbulence of relationship uncertainty. These singles, much like the album itself, highlight her emotional evolution and her audacious embrace of different music styles.
Nicki Nicole's raw authenticity and unflinching exploration of personal growth are clearly reflected in ALMA. It's a candid narrative about rising from adversity and the ongoing quest for self-discovery. As she belts out her soulful melodies, Nicki Nicole invites her listeners to embark on this journey with her. Through her music, she reassures them that they, too, can brave the storms and emerge stronger.
As the album plays, it's impossible not to admire this young artist’s audacity to bare her soul, the courage to rise from the ashes, and the talent to produce a body of work that speaks to the human condition. Whether it's through the dramatic strings of "Ya No" or the heady beats of "8 AM," Nicki Nicole's ALMA is a message of resilience and a testament to the healing power of music.
Photo: TotoPons
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