A Quick Chat With ALETHIA
Introducing ALETHIA, the Colombian-born, Naarm-based singer whose ethereal voice and Latin-Soul fusion have captivated audiences worldwide. Her highly anticipated debut album, 'ALETHIA', has just been released and is a journey through four distinct acts that traverse the depths of human experience. From her roots in Latin Pop to explorations of Reggae, R&B, Dub, and Drum & Bass, each chapter resonates with heartfelt storytelling and introspection. ALETHIA's music embodies a profound connection to life's diverse tapestry and has created a transformative narrative, culminating in an album that will no doubt touch hearts and inspire minds. We caught up with her to find out more.
What does this album mean to you, and what do you hope people take away from it?
This album is an embodiment of trust, authenticity, and the freedom to be unapologetically myself.
I envision us as butterflies, emerging from cocoons, each life experience revealing more of our true selves. We encounter poeple who mirror our light or shadows, guiding us towards healing and authenticity. It's a journey to connect with our essence and the universal language of love. I hope people believe in their potential, trust in their path, when we belive we can do anything!
What were some of the influences behind the album?
I approached this album without any specific influences or references in mind, letting it be a pure reflection of my life's journey. The sounds and styles evolved organically, shaped by significant and memorable moments. You might hear echoes of Pink Floyd in the last two tracks, a nod to my upbringing in San Andres, Colombia, with its rich reggae traditions and the soulful imprints of Latin American artists like Silvana Estrada and Natalia Lafourcade. There are also threads of R&B woven through, inspired by artists like Jorja Smith, Kali Uchis and Tash Sultana. This album is a mixture of some of the genres I love the most, even exploring Drum & Bass.
If anything, my father, and the way he introduced me to music, has been a profound inspiration throughout my career and this album too.
What was the creative process for producing the album?
The creative process for this album was an intricate dance of past and present. Some songs were born years ago, while others emerged after my move to Australia and during the pandemic, part of my personal healing journey. The recording and production spanned Bogotá, San Andres, Brisbane, and Melbourne, facilitated by collaborations that brought the diverse sounds to life. I worked with my brothers and with Jonh Celis, a producer from San Andres for the reggae tracks, Ben, a D&B producer in Melbourne for the electronic songs, and Daniela Cabrera and Nestor Vivas in Bogotá for the Latin tracks. The psychedelic rock pieces were shaped with Brad from Supersonic Recordings in Melbourne.
Can you tell us more about the album being broken into different genres/parts?
This album is a mosaic of my evolving sound and self. in 2020, I decided to do a master's in Creative Industries at JMC; I delved into the themes of healing, purpose, and the therapeutic power of music and chose to make this album. The album unfolds in four parts:
Roots: Embracing our origins and the desire to belong, expressed through Latin American pop.
Nostalgia: Reflecting on past experiences and memories conveyed through soulful reggae and R&B.
Love: Exploring the complexities of love and transformation with electronic tracks about self-love and Eros-type love
Hope: Our connection to the universe and the recognition of being part of something greater depicted in atmospheric rock ballads.
These segments symbolize our metamorphosis into butterflies, ready to pursue our dreams.
Who would you like to collaborate with and why?
Collaborating with Chet Faker or Hiatus Kaiyote would be a dream. Chet Faker's music moves people with its thought-provoking lyrics and emotional depth. Hiatus Kaiyote's boundary-pushing, experimental sound resonates deeply with me. Their melodies and creativity are incredibly inspiring, and I aspire to be surrounded by such innovative and talented individuals.
What other creative outlets do you have besides music?
Apart from music, I am passionate about musical theatre, dancing, and acting. I also love directing, collaborating, and conceptualizing music videos. Crafting scripts, designing sets, and creating visual stories is an exhilarating process for me.
Who are some local bands we should check out?
Some of my favorite local bands include Remedy, Velvet Bloom, Perolas, Vanessa Estrada, Amaru Tribe, Golden Hour, and of course, Hiatus Kaiyote hehe.
What do you have planned for your album launch show?
Jesus! I am super excited about this concert!
I'm preparing my album launch show at the iconic Athenaeum Theatre in Melbourne CBD on August 2nd.
I’ll be performing all four parts of the album alongside my band and a beautiful ensemble featuring cello, violin, Latin American percussion, trumpet, electronic elements and Special guest artists like Vanessa estrada and Perolas will join me for select songs; two wonderful opening acts, the incredible talented Liana Perillo on harp and Elaura, a lovely Chilean-Australian R&B singer. The lighting show, designed by my dear friend Nicholas Beachen, will add another layer of magic. Plus, I'll be launching my first vinyl at this concert.
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