Bruja cover

Bruja

Mala Rodríguez · 2013

39 min · 12 tracks · alternative hip-hop

A vibrant fusion of flamenco rhythms and hip-hop beats, layered with powerful, unapologetic lyrics that challenge societal norms.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Esclavos — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its urgent beat and a fierce critique of societal issues, showcasing Mala's lyrical prowess.
  • →
    Caliente — Blending reggaeton influences with flamenco flair, this track stands out for its infectious energy and celebration of sensuality.
  • →
    Miedo a volar — This song delves into personal fears and aspirations, illustrating Mala's introspective side while maintaining an empowering message.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album fuses flamenco and hip-hop with powerful lyrics, showcasing both innovation and cultural depth.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong rhythmic pulse in 'Esclavos', setting a high-energy tone that persists through the first half.
  • Tracks like 'Caliente' and 'Hazme eso' incorporate traditional flamenco elements, blending them seamlessly with contemporary hip-hop beats.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies and call-and-response patterns, enhancing the dynamic between the artist and her themes.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • empowering anthems for self-expression
  • vibrant energy for social gatherings
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • unapologetic lyrics that provoke thought
  • danceable beats with rhythmic intensity

Maybe skip if you

  • slow and patient listening preferred
  • long immersive tracks sought

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Bruja' was released in June 2013, Mala Rodríguez had already established herself as a significant voice in Spanish hip-hop. This album followed her critically acclaimed release 'Dirty Bailarina' from 2010, and it marked her continued evolution as an artist, blending traditional Spanish sounds with contemporary urban music.
Stylistic neighbors
C. Tangana· Nathy Peluso· Kase.O

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Cuando tú me apagas

    The narrative shifts to confront a lover directly, revealing vulnerabilities hidden throughout the song.

    This direct address marks a departure from the rest of the album's more abstract reflections, intensifying the emotional connection.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Esclavos 3:43
  • 2 Caja de madera 2:54
  • 3 33 2:29
  • 4 Cuando tú me apagas 3:10
  • 5 Caliente 4:46
  • 6 Hazme eso 3:19
  • 7 Lluvia 3:21
  • 8 Dorothy 3:33
  • 9 La rata 2:08
  • 10 Quién manda 2:47
  • 11 Miedo a volar 3:31
  • 12 Ella 3:59

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata