MUSIC

Molina Releases Dark New Single “Parásito”

The new release features a engrossing fusion of New Wave and indie synth-pop.

Alex Carlyle

Molina's new release "Parásito" is a haunting track, bringing '80s energy to a darkly modern synth-pop sound.

The single—the newest off her upcoming EPm Vanilla Shell, out in November—is familiar territory for the Danish-Chilean artist's small discography—Molina's singles to date make the most of this formula, the tightly-wound New Wave-ness wrapped around Molina's shadowy charisma. It's a compelling combination, as her lyrics about desire and heartbreak are enlivened with a lushly-constructed production. Especially here on "Parásito," Molina sounds a bit like Nico poured through the sieve of 2010s electropop: a dark and engrossing performance set comfortably in a synth soundscape.

But "Parásito" is Molina's first song sung in Spanish, a deliberate choice that changes the tone of the song: "The drama in the language makes it easier and more natural for me to be extrovert[ed] and emotional," Molina herself says. Compared to her other singles, which are a little more fragmented and abstract in their storytelling, the lyricism of "Parásito" is more straightforward, more present in its longing. The creepy bassline, the ambient clouds of sound, Molina's echoing voice: They all make Molina's want sound even more foreboding, as she turns her lover into the only thing that can sate her hunger. The song's still suffused with desire, but there's a sense of tragedy.

Molina's made herself a main character in this small drama, and her willingness to construct that drama for the listener spells an exciting future for the up-and-coming singer.

Talk Talk - It's My Life (Official Video)

It was confirmed today that Mark Hollis, frontman of Talk Talk, has died after a short illness at the age of 64. One of the co-founders of Talk Talk, Paul Webb, shared this touching tribute to the singer:

See on Instagram

Hollis' longtime manager, Keith Aspden said, "I'm still trying to accept this but sadly it's true, Mark has died after a short illness from which he never recovered. Deeply felt sorrow for a remarkable person who remained true to himself throughout his life. I can't tell you how much Mark influenced and changed my perceptions on art and music. I'm grateful for the time I spent with him and for the gentle beauty he shared with us."

Talk Talk was formed in 1981 when Hollis met drummer Lee Harris, bassist Paul Webb, and keyboardist Simon Brenner. Mark Hollis' voice was the sound of the 80s, perfectly tortured but emotive, tender but gruff. He was responsible for such hits as "It's My Life" and "The Rainbow." He released five records with Talk Talk before they split up in 1991 and a solo album in 1998 before virtually going off the grid.

In tribute to the life and work of Mark Hollis, we've compiled a list of the top five best Talk Talk songs of all time.

"It's My Life"

One of the band's most popular songs, this solid pop song made it to the Top 10 in the US and the Top 20 in the UK upon its release in 1984.

"The Rainbow"

Talk Talk - THE RAINBOW - 1988www.youtube.com

Released on their 1987 experimental album Spirit of Eden, this iconic tune features aspects of jazz, electronica, classical, folk, blues, and prog rock.

"New Grass"

Talk Talk - New Grass (Video)www.youtube.com

A definite stand out on Laughing Stock, this guitar-heavy piece is meditative and powerful. The specific musical voice of Mark Hollis is incredibly clear here.

"After the Flood"

Talk Talk - AFTER THE FLOOD - 1991www.youtube.com

Featuring more soul influences than other eras in Talk Talk's career, these are some of Hollis' strongest lyrics.

"Life's What You Make It"

Talk Talk - Life's What You Make It Official Music Videowww.youtube.com

Another Talk Talk classic, this song leans more towards rock, but still features plenty of 80s pop effects, and, of course, Hollis' infectious voice.


Brooke Ivey Johnson is a Brooklyn based writer, playwright, and human woman. To read more of her work visit her blog or follow her twitter @BrookeIJohnson.


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