After more than five years of anticipation, the Spanish pop-rock duo Amaral has officially released their ninth studio album, Dolce Vita, as of February 7, 2023. Comprised of the talented Eva Amaral and Juan Aguirre, the band has left an indelible mark on the Spanish music scene over their nearly three-decade career. This latest effort not only reaffirms their signature style but also embraces new themes of freedom and self-expression.
With Dolce Vita, Amaral aims to encapsulate the essence of beauty and connection, both with oneself and with one's environment. "Dolce Vita may accompany people and provoke euphoria, or perhaps melancholy at some point," Aguirre stated, highlighting the emotional depth embedded within the album's fifteen tracks. The duo took time to develop this work, ensuring the music reflected genuine emotions and experiences without succumbing to industry pressures.
During their recent appearance on the late-night program La Revuelta, the band discussed how they intentionally chose to take time with this album. "It's important to do things at the pace you feel you must do them," Amaral noted, emphasizing their commitment to authenticity. Their decision to preserve the essence of their sound over time has allowed them to connect intimately with fans, as their music resonates with the experiences of multiple generations.
On Dolce Vita, the duo refers to their emotional transparency as "nakedness," expressing their desire to create what they call their "paradise." "We have emotional nakedness, and we are trying to build our paradise," said Amaral, pointing to the album's core message of seeking beauty and freedom amid modern-day adversities.
Despite the long wait for this album, Amaral’s dedication to their craft led to the project's eventual fruition. Over the past years, they have performed extensively, reigniting their passion for live music with each concert. Aguirre remarked on their experience during the pandemic, stating, "We started to play so much after confinement, and it was difficult to resist appealing proposals." Such live interactions have undoubtedly fueled the energy of Dolce Vita.
The duo’s live performances, recently showcased on La Revuelta, are met with enthusiasm and nostalgia. Host David Broncano praised the band’s consistency and the legacy they have built, recognizing them as one of the most significant acts in modern Spanish music. Amaral took the opportunity to express gratitude for live music, saying, "Thanks for returning music to television; there are very few programs where this is done."
Looking back on their rich history, Amaral has garnered recognition and awards, including the prestigious Gold Medal for Fine Arts two years ago. They recounted their memorable encounter with the Spanish royal family, with Aguirre noting, “We thought it was a joke because they usually award such honors to those with longer careers.”
Thematically, Dolce Vita navigates the duality of happiness and challenges. The underlying tone of the album showcases not only personal narratives but also broader societal reflections. Aguirre mentioned, "The world is not crap; we must be optimistic," highlighting their intention to inspire listeners to find hope and positivity even within the chaos of everyday life.
Songs such as "La Unidad del Dolor" highlight these concepts of embracing both strength and fragility, proving Amaral's evolution as songwriters who understand the universal struggles embedded within human experience. Their ability to create music about personal and emotional topics adds depth to their already impressive discography.
Transitioning through live performances, radio interviews, and documentary features, Amaral looks forward to captivating audiences with their emotive yet electrifying sound. The duo is excited about their upcoming live appearances, including the Goya Awards, where they intend to continue to bring the spirit of Dolce Vita to life.
With Dolce Vita, Amaral reestablishes themselves as not just musicians, but storytellers who reflect life’s contradictions and blessings. They invite listeners to join them on this vibrant exploration of life’s joys and tribulations. The band continues to push boundaries creatively, ensuring their music not only resonates but evolves with time.
While the world of the music industry constantly shifts and presents new challenges, Amaral’s unwavering dedication to their artistry speaks volumes about their commitment to crafting genuine, heartfelt music. Their ability to express complex themes with simplicity creates connections, solidifying their place as icons within the Spanish music scene.
The release of Dolce Vita marks yet another remarkable chapter for Amaral, filled with hope, inspiration, and authentic artistic expression. Fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this beloved band—one thing is certain: Amaral’s sonic legacy continues to thrive and inspire.