Check out a stellar, new single from Los Angeles based artist KiNG MALA. Titled ‘sugarblind’, the track blends alternative rock and pop and is reminiscent of Tame Impala’s hypnotic bass line. As for the atmosphere, it gives off chill vibes where Ashe meets Bishop Briggs. Through metaphorical lyrics, Areli Castro compares the ravenous hunger for something sweet, with the feeling of lust for someone.
With a captivating hook and bass guitar riffs to support the melody, it is a calm, cool, and collected piece. The percussion accompanies the rhythm and adds to its ambiance. We get a sense of attitude and mystery in the air of the notes. As you listen on, you’ll feel the youthful energy and musical sophistication. It stays true to her fun and carefree ethos, as her soulful, raspy vocals intertwine with brooding melodies and muted tones. It may sound somewhat familiar to you, and that’s because it was produced by Rob Auerbach and mastered by John Greenham–who has worked with Billie Eilish, Sam Smith, Katy Perry, Banks.
Raised in a hispanic home, the artist is passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+, POC and Indigenous communities. What’s more is that she is open about mental health, which is something we can get behind when it comes to music. More often than not, mental health is something that is often overlooked and judged. Through music, we can escape but special messages within our favorite music make it that much better. I think that the track is aptly named as sometimes society can be blind to the sugarcoatings of life. KiNG MALA has garnered support from the likes of American Songwriter, Live Nation’s Ones To Watch and Earmilk.
Castro hails from El Paso, but is now a Los Angeles based alternative soul artist. Arelie touches on themes of lust, recklessness and badass femininity. She isn’t afraid to spill her guts and sets out with the intention to create brave and unapologetic music. She is bold and brazen, delivering her own distinct sound, just the way she wants it.
“Thats really the inspiration for the name KiNG MALA, king cuz fuck being someone’s queen, and mala literally means “bad bitch” in spanish. I hope it helps people feel okay with what they feel, I’m a person with very intense feelings and it took me a long time to realize that that’s a gift not a weakness.” – Areli Castro
Her music narrates letting go of fear, being honest with yourself and those around you and ultimately living your truest self. That much we can feel from the way her music plays and sounds. To her, life is messy and we shouldn’t feel ashamed to show our emotions and speak our mind.
KiNG MALA
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