The buzz surrounding Girl Ultra’s latest album, RRRomeo, a potent collaboration with Chromeo’s Dave 1, has been undeniable since its drop on October 9. This isn't just another R&B project; it’s a sonic statement that pulls from deep, unexpected places, challenging the polished, self-conscious vibe that sometimes creeps into our nightlife. As Billboard Latin recently reported, it’s a full-circle moment for Girl Ultra, who once admired Chromeo from the crowd, now crafting an entire LP with one half of the iconic duo.
Girl Ultra's Vision: Beyond Pristine Funk
What started as Dave 1's idea for an R&B-funk record quickly morphed under Girl Ultra's creative direction. She wasn’t interested in staying in one lane, instead drawing from her Mexico City roots and a rich tapestry of influences—from her rock-loving dad to romantic pop and traditional Mexican music. The result is a vibrant, sometimes unsettling blend of analog funk, darkwave, synth-pop, and dub, all infused with tropical textures. Dave 1, known for Chromeo’s meticulously crafted sound, even handed over Pro Tools sessions and stems, a testament to his trust in Girl Ultra’s vision. As she puts it, she’s “a dark girly,” and that darker instinct shines through, twisting pristine funk into something grittier and more complex.
RRRomeo isn't just a sonic journey; it's a mission statement. Girl Ultra aims to inject raw, uninhibited desire back into the club scene. In an era where every move is potentially filmed and shared, she argues that nightlife has become too self-conscious. This album is a direct challenge to that, a call to embrace the "feral part of wanting." From the hypnotic sitar-like melodies of tracks like “El Groove de Romeo” to the seductive deception explored in “MentirasMentiras” featuring Buscabulla, the album urges listeners to let go, to dance, sweat, and make out without worrying about the optics. It’s about waving a “flag of PDA” and reclaiming physical, unapologetic expression.
The LatinMixx Take
For DJs, producers, and selectors in our scene, RRRomeo is an essential listen and a goldmine of inspiration. Girl Ultra’s daring blend of genres offers fresh textures that can elevate any set. Don’t be afraid to pull from its darkwave undertones for an edgy transition or drop a tropical-infused track like “Denisse” to add unexpected sparkle. This album is a masterclass in how to infuse diverse influences—from '80s rock to dub—into a cohesive, forward-thinking sound. Producers should take note of how Girl Ultra and Dave 1 create space for chaos within polish, offering a blueprint for pushing boundaries without losing impact. Integrate these tracks to challenge your audience, encourage genuine movement, and remind everyone that the dance floor is a place for authentic expression, not just curated moments. RRRomeo isn't just an album; it’s a vibe reset for the club.