Album Review: “Dirty Talk” by Michi
Michi is the majestic musical project of Michelle Guerrero, an artist hailing from Los Angeles. Deeply rooted in her Latino heritage, Michi seamlessly weaves Motown, soul, and indie-pop into her music, crafting a distinctive, genre-defying sound. Her musical journey began in an unexpected yet lucky way—after meeting her band at a party, Michi embarked on a creative path that led to the release of numerous singles and EPs. This evolution culminated in her debut album, Dirty Talk, released on February 28th of this year, produced by Blake Rhein and Paul Cherry.
Though Michi’s career started in LA, she took a pivotal step in 2023, relocating to a small seaside town to focus on her artistry and explore new sonic landscapes. Dirty Talk is a reflection of this transformative period, an album brimming with ethereal vocals and infectious rhythms that invite listeners on an introspective yet vibrant journey. Fans of Erykah Badu and The Isley Brothers will find themselves drawn to Michi’s soulful sound, as these legendary artists are among her biggest influences.
The album opens with “Intro,” an atmospheric instrumental track that sets the tone for the experience ahead. This sensual and intimate prelude seamlessly transitions into “Walking Away,” the album’s second track. With its lively groove and captivating hook, Michi’s vocals shine as they intertwine with the instrumentation, culminating in a delicate, soulful piano outro.
Michi’s first single from the album, “Snoobie,” is a sultry track layered with R&B and soul influences. Lyrically, it captures a moment of liberation, her definitive “I’m done!” declaration following the end of a past relationship. The song’s lush drum patterns blend seamlessly with the deep, rhythmic bass, building up to the mesmerizing guitar starting at the 1:09 mark.
The album then takes an unexpected yet exhilarating turn with “There’s No Heaven,” a track that ventures into house and dance music. While Michi’s R&B essence remains present in her vocal delivery, the pulsating beats and hypnotic instrumentals showcase her ability to experiment and evolve as an artist. This bold shift further cements her talent for genre-blending, a skill she has consistently demonstrated throughout her discography.
Spanning ten masterfully crafted tracks, Dirty Talk is a testament to Michi’s artistic growth and passion. Every song exudes a unique blend of emotional depth and sonic brilliance, reflecting her transition from the bustling streets of LA to the tranquil inspiration of the sea. As Michi continues to refine her craft, her music remains a beautiful balance between sensitivity and strength, an ever-evolving soundscape that leaves listeners eager for what’s next.