A Breath of Fresh Air for Portuguese Music

As 2025 kicks off, I find myself captivated by an album that deserves attention far beyond the artist’s native Madeira. The project, a collaboration between VAN ZEE and acclaimed producer FrankieOnTheGuitar, has quickly become my go-to soundtrack. Admittedly, there’s a touch of pride involved—I’m from Madeira too. But setting bias aside, this album is a refreshing jolt to the Portuguese rap scene and a significant contribution to Portuguese music as a whole.

The fusion of visual aesthetics, sonic elements, and sharp production recalls the genre-bending genius of Kanye West, albeit on a more localized scale. VAN ZEE’s command of rhythm and performance stands out, particularly his seamless blending of Portuguese and English lyrics. The result? Tracks that are irresistibly catchy and effortlessly effective.

Despite being a recent release, the album evokes a sense of nostalgia by sampling classic Portuguese songs. This, combined with its innovative approach and polished execution, elevates it to masterpiece status in my book.

It’s a standout project that deserves a high rating—not just for its artistry, but for its sheer listenability. I encourage everyone, whether Lusophone or international, to dive in. VAN ZEE’s flow and FrankieOnTheGuitar’s top-tier production make this album a remarkable experience.