Maluma is an artist who has always been known to give fans various versions of himself whenever he releases new music, and his latest offering, Don Juan, is no exception. His sixth studio album introduced a new character from his 2020’s Papi Juancho. However, something still true to the essence of who he is runs true throughout all his albums. 

When it comes to consuming music in a language that is not your primary language, very often, you have to go off something other than what the actual lyrics are saying and, more so, how the music makes you feel and how it speaks to you in that way. There is much to be appreciated and taken in when you listen to music in a language that is not your own. The globalisation of music has somewhat eliminated language barriers when it comes to consuming music as you realise there is so much more than just the words being said that impacts your ability to take in and enjoy whatever you may be listening to.

This has been the secret to Maluma’s success throughout his career, as he has been able to dominate and cross over to become the international success that he is. Don Juan is an album that delivers on this front, offering various musical styles from start to finish. The opening track, which happens to be the title track, Don Juan (Intro), introduces one style of what is to be across the album. Across the album, he taps into various moments. There is his Marc Anothy collaboration ‘La Fórmula’, which taps into salsa, and Diablo Que Chimba with Anuel AA , which taps into reggaeton, and these are just two examples of site.

One thing that is undeniable when you listen to the album is the growth and shift that has taken place from Maluma’s previous works. Don Juan is one of the many characters he has embodied throughout his career, from Pretty Boy to Dirty Boy and Papi Juancho. Don Juan is described as “more grown up and suave, ” which is evident across the album. However, it is not without necessarily losing the essence of Maluma and what he brings to his music. 

The album features production from the likes of Madmusick, The Rudeboyz, DJ Luian, Filly, Sergio George, and Mambo Kingz, to name a few. As well as Maluma, who is also a composer on the album, everybody involved ties together an album that gives you a different feel as you move from track to track, yet still something that ties together quite nicely. The album reflects his earliest sounds with a bit of maturity to them. Standout moments on the album include Coco Loco, the first track I heard from the album, which intrigued me to tune in and see what was on offer. Nómina is another track with features from Jowell & Randy. Humedad is another moment that stands out to me, and even though the album plays for a total of 19 tracks, 25 if you include the bonus tracks, there is something about the flow and how you can continuously still go as you listen to the album.

Having reached a moment and time in his career where he has been able to cement himself as one of the top Latin artists gracing the international music scene, he has also been able to incorporate new elements to his music, which have helped maintain his musical status and ability to touch audiences all over the globe. Set to embark on the Don Juan tour kicking off in the US. This will certainly see venues packed with people celebrating all that he has to offer when he brings the character of Don Juan to life on the stage and, of course, bringing his Maluma magic.

Don Juan is out now, follow Maluma via @maluma

Words Seneo Mwamba