Macaco

Last week I got an opportunity to have a phone interview with the sweet Macaco and we talked a bout his latest album, "Civilizado Como Los Animales," which includes features by Monsieur Periné, Jorge Drexler, and Visitante amongst others. The album is great both musically and lyrically! Macaco is an artist that is very in tune with what is going on.

As he mentioned during our conversation, these are all collaborations that came about naturally whether it was agreed upon or via friendship or because it's someone he admires. He made a point of saying that he likes collaborating with people that are "open-minded". Everything about this album seems genuine and very in the style of Macaco (yes, he has been making music for a long time and it is definitely Desert of My Eye approved). Macaco also mentioned that this 13-song album has been some time in the making. "It's the mixing of many genres." Like he said, it includes elements of flamenco, folklore and so much more. He really makes a point of why it's important to experiment with different genres. 

I asked Macaco what his biggest lesson has been regarding music, considering he has been in the game since 1997. "Us musicians can make a change. It's a lesson that never stops." Despite the light-heartedness of the conversation, Macaco is serious when it comes to his music and the impact he can have on people.

That same impact is what lead me to ask him about his "MOVING" environmental project that he has with National Geographic. I asked him about what inspired him to make that project and what small changes can one make regarding their own habits. He answered in such a wise manner, "It's urgent. Any change is good whether small or big. It's about changing habits and creating a dialogue. Recycle. Separate trash. Talk about it. It's important to pressure politicians. It's very real. We are a plague to this Earth. It's our only home and we need to take care of it. We are fragile and so is Earth. Just remember the dinosaurs are gone too and it was once their home." I got chills. It's true. Climate change is very real and it's amazing when musicians use their platform to speak about it. I really urge people to take a time and reflect on those Earth-damaging habits. Not only that, but I urge dialogue as well. 

Macaco was such a delight to talk to as much as it is to listen to his music. I added his latest video release to date below. Check it out! Enjoy and reflect. 'Til next time.