Composer and producer Rafael Montecruz defines his approach to modern music as that of a storyteller. The songs connect for their heartfelt realism, the music and melodies elevating that quality by way of striking and compelling audio escapism.
The award-winning single Day, in its Remix version, marks a fine introduction, presenting a thoughtful and heartfelt story, alongside a catchy melody and an ethereal EDM production both immersive and mellow as it rains down all around.
Montecruz captures the essence of nostalgia when reflecting on love, and in the process delivers a soulfully evocative arrangement, with featured vocals akin to the likes of Justin Bieber, but a dreamy and colourful production as addictive and engaging as any of the best dance-pop releases of recent years.
Eclecticism is a key strength of Rafael Montecruz, meaning that genre far from defines his approach to music.
Consider the equally renowned and vastly streamed single I Saw Her. The same tender vocals guide us, the same sense of romantic longing, but now we’re enveloped in an acoustic country pop realm, complete with the organic strum of a guitar and the gentle passion of piano.
As ever, strength of songwriting is crucial, and this too rises up with energy and catchy melodic resolves, to present an emotional and memorable ode to unrivaled connection with a significant other.
Leaning towards fresh creative plains again is the piano ballad Tell Me Why. This alternative version features breathy and vulnerable vocals, stripped-back in a simple and intimate setting. The song delves into heartbreak and love with poetic appreciation for the details and the small moments that make things feel special.
The story has an extensively long-form presence to it, holding attention through various intricacies and memories as the soundscape slowly gathers momentum. Once again, Montecruz accesses the depths of love, connection, and ultimately – the pain and sense of emptiness that ensues after having lost someone who meant so much.
Songwriting and arrangements are the beating heart of the Rafael Montecruz sound, and to see that quality in action, we turn towards the original organic version of Day.
Minimal production, acoustic guitar and those distinctly expressive, evocative vocals highlighting a whole other side to the song – the craving for simpler times, the story of progressing through friendship to something more. It’s a relatable and refreshingly honest portrayal of desire, and is one of Rafael’s most streamed songs to date; thanks to its powerful and passionate melodic and conceptual evolution.
Find Rafael Montecruz on Soundcloud, Instagram, YouTube & his Website.
