BY: JESSE ZAPATERO

The Marías have returned with their second full-length album, "Submarine," and it's a substantial step forward from their previous release, "Cinema." In this new record, the band explores themes of solitude, isolation, and personal reflection, crafting an atmospheric soundscape that feels both familiar and refreshingly evolved. The three-year gap between albums has allowed the band to refine their style, resulting in a project that feels more cohesive and mature.

"Submarine" maintains the dreamy, lush instrumentals that have become a hallmark of The Marías' sound. The oceanic theme, hinted at by the album title and cover art, is woven throughout the music with an effortless grace. From the opening track "Ride," listeners are immersed in a sound that ebbs and flows, with ambient tones and muffled electric guitar setting the scene for what lies ahead. The aquatic elements continue to play a significant role, with tracks like "Echo" featuring bubble-like effects and "Paranoia" offering splashy, light guitar riffs.

The album showcases The Marías' bilingual approach, with songs sung in both English and Spanish. This linguistic duality adds a rich layer to their music, particularly in tracks like "Lejos de Ti" and "Ay No Puedo," where the emotional depth of María Zardoya's vocals shines through. Zardoya’s voice is the central force throughout the album, bringing an understated drama and emotional weight to each song. Her ability to convey complex emotions with whispers, coos, and sighs is particularly effective in tracks like "Vicious Sensitive Robot" and "No One Noticed."

Despite the slow pace and derivative tone that might not appeal to everyone, the production quality of "Submarine" is exceptional. The Marías have managed to retain their genre-blending roots while pushing their sound further. For instance, "Hamptons" features a hard-hitting syncopated electronic beat that contrasts beautifully with the song’s wispy qualities, and "If Only" dips into noirish jazz with its prominent piano and eerie allure. The track "Blur" brings a surprising intensity with its steady drum beat and flowing bridge, while "Love You Anyway" starts with the revving of what sounds like a submerged engine, adding to the album’s aquatic theme.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Submarine" is how it marries the personal with the universal. Zardoya’s lyrics delve into interpersonal drama and modern romance, creating vivid scenes that feel cinematic. In "Echo," she sings about the complexities of a strained relationship, balancing minimization and heightened emotion with lines like, “This is overdramatic” and “Now I’m caught in the middle/ Breaking down on the floor.” Similarly, "Blur" offers poignant reflections with the line, “If I talk it’s like medicine/ Then it turns into evidence.”

The Marías' ability to blend different genres and maintain a cohesive sound is evident throughout the album. From the bossa nova influence in "Ay No Puedo" to the distorted outbursts in "Blur," the band keeps the listener engaged with varied and lush productions. Even the closing track, "Sienna," brings the album to a haunting end with its poignant lyrics about lost potential and vanished futures.

This album shows how much the Maria’s have grown. It captures the essence of their previous work while pushing their sound in new and exciting directions. The album is more than just a collection of songs; it’s an emotional experience that resonates deeply with the listener. Whether you’re walking along the coast or studying, "Submarine" offers a moody and immersive listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Fans and newcomers alike will find much to appreciate in this beautifully crafted record.