Track listing: Tren Lunar 404, Atlas Amarillo (Feat. La Bermúdez ), Toro Corriendo (Feat. Estefa Silvera), Las Palmas, Angel Y Sol ( Feat. JXagra), Rio Manzanares, Siete Gatos Negros (Feat. N1E), Transmite Paz (Feat. Laura Gomez), El Curadero, Conduciendo A Tarifa (Feat Estefa Silvera, JXagra, La Bermúdez, N1E, Laura Gomez)
t dot est's latest release MAD is a 10-track full-length album that brings together sounds of multiple genres into a single EDM experience. Operatic and choral voices move beautifully across rich, synthesized backdrops of sound. Several tracks stick to that soothing aesthetic, while others incorporate various intensities of shaker and handclaps. The union of traditional and modern musical styles epitomizes t dot est's approach to music, bringing together the beauty of the past and energy of 21st century technology.
"Tren Lunar 404" begins our MAD experience. The "404" in the title signifies the maximum recorded speed of the Barcelona-Madrid high speed rail. And not coincidentally, 4:04 is also the duration of each song on MAD. While the ethereal feel of the first couple minutes creates a mood, the addition of percussive beats from midway through the end still do not elevate the song to a fevered pitch. The listener is still very much in a 'welcome' mode with regard to the rest of the album.
"Toro Corriendo" and "Las Palmas" continue this sort of 'introduction' to MAD. A mood is being established. An emotional baseline is being set. By the time we arrive at "Siete Gatos Negros" and "Transmite Paz," t dot est has elevated the bar. Beats persist and operatic vocals extend the album's melodic profile. Performing those vocals are a number of singers including Estefa Silvera , Laura Gomez, and La Bermúdez (aka Paty Bermúdez, whose affiliation with Mexico-based RUNA Records led to MAD's release through the label).
When I listen to an album I like to envision the setting I would most like to absorb an artist's music. In the case of t dot est's MAD, there are two absolute scenarios for me. The first is relaxation and focus. The mood of the album is calm, even amidst the most upbeat moments. Playing MAD on a weekend evening when you've remained at home to make progress on whatever it is you're up to would absolutely work for me. The second scenario? Road trip! MAD could set the tone for those long interstate excursions, allowing one to soak in the scenery and points of interest without the distraction of jarring lyrics or overly active dynamic & melodic shifts.
Follow t dot est on your platform of choice. Begin your dive into his music at https://tdotest.com/ and follow/like to stay abreast of MAD's pending release, currently slated for late October of 2024.