On 2018 album Los Ángeles, Mitú reached a new level of refinement with its dancefloor-ready brand of Afro-Colombian rhythmic explorations, paired up with experimental club sounds. Today, Franklin Tejedor and Julian Salazar have announced the release of its fifth full-length – and its third in three consecutive years – titled TANDEM, which is set to drop in early October. Featuring collaborations with fellow Colombian artists like Ela Minus and Mabiland, among others, this latest chapter already feels like another evolution of the Mitú sound, as previewed by its first single.
It only takes one listen to notice that “PERLA” doesn’t really sound like previous Mitú work, and it’s mainly because Salazar’s signature synth work is dialed down to the minimum, opening the doors for an atypical element in its music to shine: the guitar. Plucked-string melodies float around Tejedor’s irresistible drumming, instantly making this song a strong candidate for the next peak moment on the duo’s energetic live sets. Hailing from Quibdó, the capital of Colombia’s Chocó department, guest Marsh Waris commands the mic and sings about a love so strong it transcends geography, and she does so in such a laid-back manner we’re right there with her.
While you’re at it, don’t miss the green-screen fantasy visuals for “PERLA,” directed by Santiago Citelly, where we can see the three musicians performing the song surrounded by images that are as dreamy as the song itself.