Three months ago, Café Tacvba broke a four-year silence with the release of a brand new single called “Un Par De Lugares” and its accompanying environmentally conscious video. They don’t plan to leave us hanging for another four-year stretch, though; that’s why they’re ringing in 2017 with another new track titled “Futuro.”
Unlike the starry-eyed pop sheen of “Un Par De Lugares,” “Futuro” opts for a darker and more contemplative mood, borrowing heavily from the tradition of South American folk music from the 60s and 70s, especially in its percussion and chanting. Frontman Rubén Albarrán and guitarist Joselo Rangel share lead vocals, a merciless beat pounding away for most of the track while electronics bubble underneath the groove, provided by Joey Waronker (he returns to the Tacvbos fold after contributing to their Cuatro Caminos album). Growling synths take over little by little as melodies build throughout the track.
The song’s author, bassist Quique Rangel says, “The relationship between life and death and the perception of time are two themes that ‘Futuro’ explores without solemnity or optimism. But it also points to a brighter promise if we allow ourselves to recognize the here and now (without the desire to be a self-help song).” Meanwhile, bandmate Emmanuel Del Real says the music “has elements that allow us, in a fun way, to shape the piece that represents the freedom of creativity that exists within Café Tacvba.”
“Futuro” and “Un Par De Lugares” are the first tastes of the band’s next studio album, slated to drop in spring 2017. The currently untitled record was produced by longtime collaborator Gustavo Santaolalla.