Gizmo Varillas’ mix of folk and pop with tropical instrumentation, Latin and Afrobeat rhythms never disappoints. His latest album Out Of The Darkness is full of the kind of music we need in the current climate. However, as the title suggests, there’s more to the songs than sunshine and happiness alone.

Take Varillas’ new single for instance, which is about his own personal journey overcoming depression.  On the other hand, it’s a song of hope, that can be of comfort to those going through difficult times. And aren’t we all going through difficult times the last few months? Although the track was written at a different time and in a different world, it speaks perfectly to the state of global upheaval and sustained lack of conclusion we are all living right now.

A song called Rise can only be up-beat, positive and uplifting, can it? And indeed, it is. “Perseverance and taking little steps, no matter how small, will help you get to where you want to be”, according to Varillas.

Recommended as well:
Gizmo Varillas – Born Again
Gizmo Varillas – Losing You

For more great new music, follow the constantly updated Carte Blanche Music playlist.

Werner Schlosser

I’m a music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Have been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, I developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart. CEO of Werner Bros. tekst | uitleg.