From Mozart to Berghain, Rosalía’s LUX Bridges Centuries of Musical Temptation

From Mozart to Berghain: Rosalía’s LUX Bridges Centuries of Musical Temptation

Rosalía’s new album LUX, created with the London Symphony Orchestra and conductor Daníel Bjarnason, connects centuries of musical and emotional expression. It reflects a journey from classical passion to modern nightlife, showing how tastes and styles evolve over time.

Musical Evolution and Historical Context

Before the rise of Beatlemania, there was Lisztomania; before club dancing, people waltzed in beer halls and performed operas filled with intense emotion. While feelings remain universal, preferences shift: what was once captivating in a 3/4 waltz transformed into the dominant 4/4 beat.

Spiritual and Philosophical Themes in LUX

Reflecting Rosalía's Catholic background along with influences from classical philosophy, new age beliefs, and Islam, LUX explores a deeply personal spirituality. The album engages in dialogue with the past, blending musical and philosophical elements.

Connection to Mozart’s Don Giovanni

The album shares thematic and structural elements with Mozart’s Don Giovanni, a story about a reckless nobleman who repeatedly escapes danger until ultimately facing an undefeatable force. The opera ends with a chilling chorus:

“Questo è il fin di chi fa mal, e de’ perfidi la morte alla vita è sempre ugual,”

“This is the end of one who does evil, and for the wicked, death is like life.”

LUX places Rosalía and her characters in a similar moral struggle, culminating in an exploration of mortality and human existence.

Summary

LUX is a rich fusion of classical and contemporary music that invites listeners to reflect on evolving cultural tastes and profound spiritual questions through Rosalía’s unique artistic vision.

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Consequence — 2025-11-07