Album Review: The Mars Volta – Que Dios Te Maldiga Mi Corazón

Wistful acoustic folk interleaved with rich culture

The Mars Volta has always been an intense band with profound music. Many fans recall Deloused in the Comatorium to be one of Volta’s most explosive, experimental projects, a symbol of their early success as a group. A few albums later, the band took a 10 year hiatus which eventually resulted in them regrouping and releasing more music. Que Dios Te Maldiga Mi Corazón provides an extremely fresh look of the band. This project trades Volta’s earlier abrasive progressive rock sound for a much more relaxed, folksy feel.

Que Dios Te Maldiga Mi Corazón possesses a soft, almost aged sound. The album is acoustic and gives the listener lots of space to sit in the mix and truly immerse themselves in the music. Songs like “Graveyard Love” and “Que Dios Te Maldiga Mi Corazón” are played with a strong Latin feel, alluding to certain cultural ties of the El Paso based band.

Some songs on this project carry on with their own distinct style, shying away from obvious influence and gravitating towards an overall redefined sound. “Vigil” is one of these songs that demonstrates strong writing and arrangement, independent from many of the previous themes described. “Cerulea” also feels special in this sense- the vocals are haunting, yet clear and beautiful. The drums, guitar and bass play in a carefree manner while retaining a sense of seriousness. 

Overall, this album is an introspective, relaxing time. The use of acoustic instruments and percussion specifically cuts through the mix, almost giving the listener a coffee house feel as they are engaged. The songs feel intimate and warm. They are welcoming and friendly, yet contain enough information to require deep reflection and analysis. One could listen to this album with no obligations and have a great time, or sit down and take their time with it. Que Dios Te Maldiga Mi Corazón welcomes many different styles of music as well as the people associated with them. This album proves The Mars Volta’s positive growth as a band over the years, and only sets the bar higher for their next potential releases in the coming years.