Lotofire

Ely Guerra’s Lotofire rises above trivial pop concerns, and investigates Mexico’s troubling truths over sultry downtempo beats. The album’s doused with intelligence, sensuality, and sophistication, but the lyrics are raw and dark: The Portishead-leaning “Yo No” places the singer in the shoes of a femicide victim, while “Tengo Frío” ices its easy-listening sound with lines about paralyzing fear. Drum ’n’ bass, acoustic guitars, and rock distortion collide, but the spotlight is always on Guerra’s soft, breathy vocals, which can turn fiery in an instant.