Glitchy production and feminist themes abound on the singer’s latest
Right around this time last year, I took probably the best trip of my life out to Barcelona. The deeply affirming and inspiring culture, history and atmosphere would leave anyone even on a short trip with a lasting nostalgia for the city.
Multi-talented musician Jane Lui AKA Surrija drew from her own stay in Barcelona, particularly via visit to the Picasso Museum, to craft a debut self-titled LP. The single “Barcelona” is a sweeping trip-hop epic that finds Surrija putting herself in the shoes of the Picasso’s muses.
“Picasso spent many nights extracting these women’s essence and then he would dispose of them, basically crushing them into his canvas,” Surrjia details. “This was a window into breaking down patriarchy, as these women gave me agency to work through my own trauma. They are love letters to the women.”
Glitchy electronics, waves swelling bass and Surrija’s ethereal vocals all swirl to make a “Barcelona” an emotional, wistful experience.
Listen to Surrija’s “Barcelona” below and look for the album out everywhere now.
