Mëstiza’s Rise at Coachella: A Cultural Fusion in Music
Mëstiza, the Spanish electronic duo, has made waves in the music industry with their unique blend of traditional flamenco and modern electronic sounds. Their recent performance at Coachella this April, timed perfectly with the release of their sophomore album, Spanish Chica, has placed them in the spotlight. The festival, known for its eclectic lineup, welcomed Mëstiza as the only female act from Spain, marking a significant moment in their burgeoning career.
The Creative Force Behind Mëstiza
Formed in 2021, Mëstiza consists of DJs Pitty Bernad and Belah, who have both carved their paths in the music industry independently before joining forces. Under their label, Sacro, they’ve cultivated a project that stands out for its artistic ambition, channeling the rich tapestry of Spanish culture into music that resonates on dance floors worldwide.
Belah articulates their vision: “We realized there wasn’t a concept that matched our music and that was connected to our tradition.” The name “Mëstiza,” which translates to “mix,” encapsulates their mission to forge a connection between audiences and their cultural roots while celebrating the vibrant spirit of electronic music.
A New Musical Direction with Spanish Chica
Their latest album, Spanish Chica, is a notable departure from their debut, Quëreles (2023), which leaned heavily on instrumental flamenco. In contrast, Spanish Chica adopts a more club-oriented sound, characterized by deeper electronic elements and a captivating, dance-driven heartbeat. Belah describes it as “more electronic, darker, more dance-floor-driven,” signifying their growth as artists.
The album doesn’t just explore traditional Spanish sounds; it introduces a wide range of influences, weaving in Arabic, African, and Oriental elements—each deeply rooted in flamenco’s history. Tracks like “Enamorá,” “Báilame,” and “Salam” showcase this rich tapestry of sounds, making the listening experience diverse and engaging.
The Aesthetic Experience
Fashion plays a critical role in Mëstiza’s identity. With backgrounds in fine arts and communication, both Pitty and Belah curate their visual presentation meticulously. Their stage wardrobe is not merely an accessory but an integral part of the narrative they wish to convey. Belah emphasized, “It’s not just music; it’s a 360-degree project.”
This intersection of music, visuals, and performance creates an immersive experience for fans. With this holistic approach, they aspire to transcend the conventional concert format, inviting their audience not just to listen but to feel and see their story unfold.
Breaking Ground for Women in Music
As one of the few women in a male-dominated electronic scene, Mëstiza aims to inspire other women aspiring to enter the industry. “If we can somehow open doors for so many women starting out in electronic music and support them by setting an example, it would be a dream come true,” Belah expresses. Their presence at Coachella is more than a personal achievement; it symbolizes a step forward for women in music, particularly in electronic genres.
The Coachella Experience
Performing at Coachella has been a dream come true for Mëstiza. The festival’s invitation came unexpectedly, underscoring the organic growth of their career. “To make it to a festival like Coachella as independent artists was a dream that initially felt unimaginable,” Belah reflects.
Their performance is set to feature flamenco dancers and a traditional flamenco ensemble, deepening the cultural richness of their set. Although Belah remains tight-lipped about the specifics, she assures that the experience will be unique, rooted in the Spanish culture that inspires them.
Future Endeavors
Following their Coachella gig, Mëstiza’s tour will continue to major cities like Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and Chicago. A particularly exciting milestone awaits: on May 9, they plan to perform Spanish Chica from the second floor of the Eiffel Tower—a moment Belah describes as “one of our biggest dreams.” Furthermore, they are set to launch an extended residency at Hï Ibiza, creating a platform for their innovative sound and artistic vision.
Through their performances and new album, Mëstiza is not just reshaping the landscape of electronic music but also reclaiming and redefining cultural narratives, proving that the dance floor can be a place of heritage and connection.
