released: september 13, 2024

genre: electronic

from: lisbon, portugal

label: latency

a few thoughts: i don’t know how i missed this release from last year – had i discovered it when it came out, it would have certainly landed in my top 10 albums of the year. nidia has been at the forefront of some of the most exciting electronic music coming out of lisbon and the afro-portuguese diaspora. valentina is an acclaimed producer and percussionist who has worked with some of the most exciting music in recent years. estradas is their debut collaborative product and features some of the most electrifying and tribal electronic music i have heard in a while, i am obsessed. from the thumping drumming and percussion of the opener “andiamo” to the melodic, synth-heavy and melodic closer of “tutta la note”, it’s full of explosive, subdued and euphoric moments. “mata” is a clear standout to me. the heaviness of the beat, the vocal chop, the incredible percussion throughout and the overall groove is insanely good. “nasty” with its menacing energy and incredible percussion throughout is another highlight, while the playful title track is a catchy, infectious moment that has a bounce to it i absolutely love. there is so much to admire about this album, and it’s one i will be playing and replaying for months and years to come.

the album: