Ela Minus: Second Album Approaches : DIA

Ela Minus : Credit - Alvaro Ariso

Colombian electronic artist Ela Minus, known for her both her introspective lyrics and pulsating sonic landscapes, is poised to release her sophomore album, "DIA," on January 17th, 2025. This highly anticipated follow-up to her critically acclaimed 2020 debut, "acts of rebellion," promises a deeper exploration of self, forged through a nomadic creative process and a yearning for artistic honesty.

"DIA," translating to "day" in English, unveils a new chapter in Ela Minus' sonic journey. Unlike "acts of rebellion," which, by her own admission, felt restrained by surface-level lyricism, "DIA" delves into the depths of self-reflection. This evolution is not simply thematic; it's woven into the very fabric of the album's creation. Fueled by a restless spirit and modular synthesis, Ela embarked on a global quest to create "DIA." From the arid expanses of the Mojave Desert to the bustling streets of Mexico City, each location offered a unique sonic tapestry that found its way into the album's composition. This nomadic creation process mirrors the album's exploration of self – a journey without a fixed destination, constantly evolving with each encountered landscape.

The lead single, "Broken," released alongside a captivating music video co-directed by Ela herself, serves as a potent introduction to the album's emotional core. The song pulsates with raw vulnerability, chronicling the process of acknowledging vulnerability and navigating the path towards healing.

"DIA" isn't simply an introspective exploration; it's an invitation. The accompanying video for the follow-up single, "UPWARDS," directed by Albert Estruch and Marc Sancho, depicts a lone figure traversing a barren landscape, eventually encountering a vibrant community. This imagery invites listeners to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery, seeking solace and connection amidst the vastness of life's experiences.

The album's title, "DIA," carries a weight beyond its literal translation. It signifies the cyclical nature of self-discovery, a journey bathed in the light of each passing day. Each track on the album acts as a snapshot, capturing a specific moment in Ela's ever-evolving internal landscape.

Listening to the first bit of "DIA" its clear to see how her music provokes the introspective questions: How do our experiences shape who we are? How do we reconcile our past selves with the individuals we strive to become? Ela Minus offers no easy answers, but through her evocative artistry, she provides a space for contemplation. "DIA" is a sonic meditation, an invitation to embark on a personal odyssey of self-discovery, guided by the ever-shifting rhythm of life's journey.

Ela Minus, born Diana Helena Lucia Jimeno Zapata, isn't just an artist; she's a multifaceted creative force. Her journey began not with electronic music, but with the pulsating power of drums. From the age of 12, she honed her skills as a drummer for Ratón Perez, a Colombian hardcore rock band. This early experience instilled in her a deep connection to rhythm, a foundational element that continues to define her electronic compositions.

Driven by a thirst for new sonic horizons, Ela transitioned to electronic music while studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Her commitment to analog creation sets her apart within the electronic music scene. Unlike many artists who rely heavily on digital manipulation, Ela embraces the imperfections and warmth inherent in analog synthesizers. This dedication to a more physical and visceral approach to music production imbues her work with a distinct raw energy.

Ela Minus is a force to be reckoned with. "DIA" stands as a testament to her artistic evolution and unwavering commitment to introspective lyricism. As she embarks on a tour supporting the album, including prestigious slots alongside Caribou and Floating Points, one thing is certain: Ela Minus is an artist on a mission to redefine the boundaries of electronic music, all while encouraging listeners to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and synthesis.

Ela Minus - UPWARDS from her second album DIA, out January 17th 2025 on Domino Record Co.