Austin-based art-pop band Alma Muñeca has released “Anhelo,” the latest single from their EP ‘Deseo un Brillo’ out now. The four-piece group led by Panamanian immigrant Cocó Allegra and produced by Ernesto Grey alongside Matt Russell and Wade Stephens has their song written entirely in Spanish, and the five-track project chronicles an empowering search for self-confidence, peace and healthy, fulfilling relationships while diving into desire, love and heartbreak. “Anhelo” sinks into breakup tension and desire, functioning as a personal phone call to an ex during that typical moment where you’re going through a separation but still strongly desire intimacy without caring about consequences. The song’s wonky instrumental hook came first from a modular synth followed by a bouncy bassline, living in an ambiguous state for months until the band needed one more song to complete a 30-minute live set and discovered their sound hinged on a simple four on the floor dance beat that brought all the dissonant and experimental textures to life.
Written during a bout of heartbreak, the project explores the dynamics between being on and off with someone as well as familial heartbreak and disappointment, navigating the intricate difficulties of nuanced relationships. Allegra felt inspired by old salsa music she would play on repeat during breakups, particularly Oscar D’León’s “Lloraras,” while also drawing motivation from FKA Twigs’ “oh my love” and Fiona Apple’s “I Want You to Love Me.” Grey has worked his whole life for this moment, from early life in Mexico where he was exposed to 2000s Latin pop led by rock instrumentation to his formative teen years in Austin where he discovered electronic producers like Trent Reznor, Thom Yorke and Jon Hopkins. Through their live performances, Alma Muñeca aims to uplift the Latin and queer communities while pairing honest stories with experimental, synth-filled production and dreamy vocals.