Aleandro Valente, the talented pop singer and songwriter from Italy, has made his mark with the release of his highly anticipated debut album titled 'Bite On a Lemon'.
Based in the vibrant city of New York, Aleandro invites us to embark on a captivating musical journey through irresistible melodies and a powerful voice. Get ready to immerse yourself in his musical world and enjoy an unforgettable experience.
About the artist:
Aleandro Valente began his musical journey initially in Europe, where he started showcasing incredible musical artistic abilities at a young age. With the aim of growing in the music industry, he later moved to the United States, where he currently resides, to officially kickstart his music career. In the spring of 2021, he released his first single titled "Petty," which received an incredible reception from the audience, leaving them eagerly anticipating more.
With influences from great Pop and R&B artists such as Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Ariana Grande, among others,
Aleandro continued to develop his musical style. In September of 2022, he released his debut album titled "Bite On a Lemon," which we will delve into in-depth later in this article.
About the Album:
"Bite On a Lemon" is a curious title for this album. Aleandro describes it as a metaphor for confronting his detractors, inviting them to "bite on a lemon" before talking badly about him. Symbolically, the entire album represents the way Aleandro hands out this metaphorical lemon to all those who criticize and feel envious, which surely abounds around his undeniable musical success. It's important to highlight that the introductory song was written nine years ago when Aleandro was only 15 years old, and he managed to turn his dream into reality by including it as the opening track of his debut album.
Without further ado, we invite you to embark on this incredible musical journey where we will analyze each song in detail. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Aleandro Valente and discover his undeniable talent in "Bite On a Lemon".
Track-By-Track Review
1. Intro:
The album begins with an introduction performed in an acapella track. With an absolutely stunning performance that immediately showcases Aleandro Valente's incredible vocal abilities. With a polished and powerful vocal delivery, Aleandro captures our attention from the very first moment. This intro is the perfect start to this incredible album.
This track was composed by Aleandro Valente when he was just 15 years old, demonstrating his talent and passion from an early age. Although it's not explicitly mentioned in the song's lyrics, Aleandro's performance and vocal expressiveness convey a sense of passionate love and intense desire. The way Aleandro expresses how his love is driving him crazy and his plea for help in understanding what to do about it reveals a deep vulnerability and sincerity in his music.
The introduction also sets a melodic and emotive tone for the album. Aleandro describes how the way his beloved walks, talks, and makes him feel inside indicates that it's a special connection. The mention of being taken to paradise with the bright eyes of this person adds a romantic and mystical note to the song.
It's interesting to note that Aleandro had the desire to include this track as the opening kick-off of his album since he composed it nine years ago, which the singer describes as a dream come true. This choice demonstrates the importance that this song holds for him and its personal significance in the context of the album.
2. Divine
The second track of this incredible album is titled "Divine". In it, the singer talks about the desire to be with someone on a special night, expressing a spontaneous longing because he doesn't want to pressure the person, inviting both of them to take the initiative because deep down he knows that the other person desires it too. This theme reveals an incredible romantic tension between two people, as they can be together without losing anything. The overall tone of the song is one of passion and romance, with the narrator expressing their joy of having that person in their life forever. The chorus repeats the words "Tonight, Alright, Divine" as a kind of mantra to convey the intensity of desire and the connection between the two.
From a musical standpoint, the presence of the bass stands out, providing an incredible groove, similar to songs like Dua Lipa's "Levitating" or Bruno Mars' own funk and R&B style. The bass blends perfectly with the guitars and synthesizers, creating arrangements in the background of the song. These elements contribute to the creation of a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
Aleandro's voice shines prominently in this song, mainly because of the way he creates harmonies that accompany his lead vocals. These harmonies act like a cushion of clouds, providing support and enhancing the central voice. Aleandro's ability to blend his voice with the layers of harmony adds depth and richness to the song, further enhancing the emotional and immersive aspect of "Divine".
3. ROY G. BIV.
The song titled "ROY G. BIV" initially intrigues us just by reading the title, which refers to the colors of the rainbow and serves as a metaphor to represent the diversity and individuality of each human being.
"ROY G. BIV" is described by the singer as an LGBTI+ anthem where the lyrics speak about challenging expectations and prejudices imposed by others.
In the song, the narrator expresses that they have been talking to the devil and walking through hell, which could be interpreted as facing challenges and overcoming obstacles in life. The main message seems to be that the narrator refuses to be controlled or defined by the opinions of others. They assert that if they want something, they can have it at any time, and that others have no right to judge or limit their decisions and rights.
The central theme of the song focuses on personal freedom and empowerment. The singer challenges those who try to impose their ideals and restrictions on others, urging them to solve their own problems instead of trying to restrict or harm others.
"ROY G. BIV." presents a distinct rhythm compared to the previous song, incorporating elements of urban music that give it a modern and energetic ambiance. The presence of the 808 bass stands out, making itself heard every time the percussion hits the kick, adding a solid and impactful foundation to the song. These elements of urban music contribute to creating a vibrant and captivating atmosphere.
Similar to "Divine," in "ROY G. BIV.," the backing vocals play an important role in providing harmonic support to Aleandro Valente's lead vocals. Aleandro's ability to perform vocal harmonies is impressive and shines in this song, showcasing his skill in creating vocal layers that complement and enhance his main performance. These vocal harmonies add an additional dimension to the song, creating a sense of depth and enriching the listening experience.
4. Like this
"Like this" is the fourth track of this impressive album and focuses on the theme of attraction and connection between two people. The lyrics suggest an intense physical and emotional attraction.
The chorus of the song repeats the phrase "Tell me when you find someone who does it like this" several times, implying that the person singing offers a unique and special experience that cannot be replicated by others. This creates an incredible and undeniable connection with the song "Divine," where the tension between lovers is revealed. In "Like This," Aleandro shows a bolder side, as he openly highlights the compatibility he feels with his lover through a power play and a challenging tone. He mentions and emphasizes that the object of his attraction knows them well and knows how to satisfy their desires.
The song also mentions that the narrator is so emotionally involved that they feel "fucked up tonight" and "hung up so tight." This can indicate a very strong emotional intensity that goes beyond something superficial.
"Like this" pleasantly surprises us musically, as Aleandro Valente showcases his vocal versatility by including rap sections, which had not been present in the previous songs of the album. This change in vocal style adds a fresh and dynamic element to the song. Additionally, it is worth noting the rapid variations in vocal techniques that Aleandro employs in this song, showcasing his ability to transition between different registers. He makes quick changes between his natural voice and falsetto, and occasionally even uses whispered vocals to create different nuances and vocal textures.
These variations in vocal techniques demonstrate Aleandro's skill and artistic experimentation, adding an additional level of dynamism and expression to "Like this." His ability to adapt and explore different vocal techniques within a single song is impressive and showcases his vocal prowess.
5. Dangerous Love (Interlude)
"Dangerous Love" seems to be about a relationship that is harmful and unhealthy. The lyrics suggest that the singer is experiencing feelings of dissatisfaction and discomfort in the relationship.
The narrator expresses a desire to leave and not stay in the relationship. They mention that the way the other person plays with their feelings is unfair, as if they feel manipulated or used by the other person, and this causes them pain and discomfort.
The words spoken by the other person are constantly on the narrator's mind, indicating that those words have left a deep mark. "Dangerous Love" seems to be about a toxic relationship in which the narrator feels manipulated and emotionally hurt. They express a desire to distance themselves from that relationship because of the harm it is causing them.
"Dangerous Love" stands out musically for its sad, nostalgic, and dark aura, in stark contrast to the rest of the songs on the album. In fact, this song sounds very different from everything we have heard up to this point. The musical arrangement is complemented by the presence of a piano and the sound of rain, creating a distinctive and immersive atmosphere. This interlude serves as a pause, contrasting with the euphoria provoked by the other songs. When listening to this song, we realize the importance of interludes in music albums, as they represent a necessary break that allows for reflection and immersion in a different atmosphere.
The choice of elements like the piano and the sound of rain contributes to the creation of a melancholic and emotional atmosphere in "Dangerous Love." These musical elements combine to convey a sense of introspection and add an additional layer of depth to the song. This energetically and emotionally charged pause demonstrates the importance of interludes as a tool to vary the rhythm and atmosphere of an album, allowing the listener to experience different emotions and moods throughout the record.
6. Not OK
Not OK" is a song that appears to be about internal struggles and emotional conflicts experienced by the narrator in a complicated relationship or situation.
In it, Aleandro mentions that he has been fighting all night and trying to keep something out of his mind. Although he knows he won't win that battle, he acknowledges that even when something feels good, it clouds his vision and his life seems sinful.
The main conflict of the song revolves around the narrator's desire to maintain his identity and not lose himself, while also wanting to be everything the other person sees in him or her. There is tension between maintaining his individuality and meeting the expectations or desires of the other person.
In "Not OK," the highlighted palm-muted guitar riffs give the song a distinctive and energetic character. The synthesizer melody also stands out, being incredibly catchy and reminiscent of songs like Clean Bandit's "Rather Be." This technique is interesting because the catchiness of a song is often attributed solely to the chorus, which is the standard musical climax. However, in "Not OK," the melody grabs and familiarizes us with it from start to finish, creating a captivating auditory experience.
The chorus, with the repetition of the words "OK, OK," conveys the feeling of being pressured to feel okay, as if it's the narrator's own mind or the people around him telling him that everything is fine when it's actually not. This repetition of the chorus reinforces the idea of social or internal pressure to appear okay, even when feeling otherwise. This contrast between the catchy melody and the theme of not being okay creates an interesting emotional dynamic in the song.
7. Package delivery
"Package Delivery" is the seventh track of this album, and it revolves around the theme of communication and warning signs in a relationship.
In the lyrics, the narrator mentions that they know what the other person wants from them and is willing to provide it. There is an invitation for the other person to openly express their desires and needs, creating a close connection similar to the song "Like This".
However, the narrator also points out that the lack of proper communication may be the reason why they keep encountering warning signs or issues in the relationship. This implies that the lack of clear and effective communication is causing difficulties in their connection.
At this point in the album, we begin to realize how the singer's perspective on the other person's love and the wear it causes is evolving gradually. The narrator is gaining internal maturity, which allows them to see the negative aspects present in the relationship. This makes us realize that love often blinds us, but it is never too late to ground ourselves and balance our feelings, approaching the problems from a different perspective.
"Package Delivery" stands out musically for its curious and surprising structure. It features a chord progression that changes dramatically, incorporating a minor chord in the scale, which adds an unexpected and striking element to the song. This musical choice surprises us and keeps us engaged throughout the song.
The percussion in "Package Delivery" has a great flow, adding a distinctive rhythm and groove to the song. Aleandro Valente also delivers vocal performances in a conversational manner, even speaking at some moments. These interventions add an element of diversity and dynamism to the song, creating moments of interaction and connection with the listener.
The harmonies in this song focus on the use of vocal octaves, reminiscent of artists like Justin Timberlake. This choice of vocal harmonies adds a touch of sophistication and familiarity, creating an attractive and pleasant auditory experience.
Towards the end of the song, the spoken voice is incorporated once again, generating a sense of intimacy and closeness with the listener. This resource creates a deeper emotional connection, as if Aleandro is sharing a personal message with the audience.
8. Petty
"Petty" is a song that holds a unique significance for both the artist and this album, as it is the artist's first official release. The theme of "Petty" appears to revolve around the need for validation and recognition in a relationship, demanding appreciation when feeling undervalued. The lyrics suggest that the narrator constantly seeks compliments and words of affection from their partner.
The narrator expresses that if their partner does not express love, they can feel overwhelmed and establish an emotional barrier, not allowing others to get close.
The song explores how the narrator can become "petty" (mean-spirited or resentful) if they don't receive the desired compliments and words of love. There seems to be a dependence on external validation to maintain a positive self-image, demonstrating how an intense relationship can lead to emotional dependency.
In "Petty," Aleandro Valente shows incredible courage in addressing this topic, as we often tend to overlook this phenomenon in order to validate ourselves socially as morally upright individuals. However, this is a situation that everyone has faced at least once in their lives. The way it is expressed in the song reveals that it is not necessarily a situation where we feel insecure about ourselves, but rather an insecurity associated with the other person. In a relationship, it is strictly necessary for love and appreciation to be reciprocal.
"Petty" stands out musically for its vocal demands, as Aleandro Valente constantly fluctuates between two octaves, showcasing both extremes of his vocal range. This vocal challenge brings dynamism and skill to the song, reminding us at times of the vocal versatility of artists like Ed Sheeran. Aleandro's ability to handle these vocal transitions is impressive and adds a unique and distinctive element to the song.
The song also features sections where Aleandro's voice stands alone, accompanied only by string arrangements like piano and violins. These moments allow the singer's voice to shine and express itself in a more intimate and emotional manner. The combination of the voice with the string arrangements creates a melodic and emotionally captivating atmosphere.
9. Lovin'
In "Lovin'," we can see the evident wear and tear that this relationship has caused over time. In the song, the narrator mentions that they have been trying to move forward, but the uncertainty from their partner creates a need for distance, even asking them to step back and stop communicating. The singer expresses feelings of loneliness and the need for personal space.
However, despite the confusion and difficulties in the relationship, the singer suggests that if their partner truly wants to have that good love, they can have it together. The narrator encourages their partner to let go of things and commit to building something better between them.
"Lovin'" is a song that speaks about confusion and the need for clarity in a relationship. The narrator feels perplexed by their partner's behavior, but they are willing to work on love and connection if both are willing to commit. This conveys to the listener that when love is real, there is always an opportunity to start anew.
10. Why am I Paying for it?
As we approach the end of the album, "Why am I paying for it?" is a song that deals with the pain and emotional burden that the narrator carries due to the circumstances of their life and the actions of their loved ones.
In the lyrics, the narrator mentions that since the age of 7, they were told not to openly express their feelings of sorrow and were prevented from running through the streets, which is a reference to a constant emotional repression from an early age. Then, at the age of 11, it is mentioned that "only three of them are left," implying that something has changed in their family or environment.
As the narrator grows, different stages of their life are mentioned. At the age of 13, they feel they have lost their innocence. At 16, they feel they are only seen through the perspective of someone else, possibly someone who has caused harm or had a negative influence. And when they reach 18, they feel they are paying for someone else's sins, possibly referring to the consequences of the actions of an important figure within their family.
The narrator expresses confusion and pain regarding their past and the emotional burden they carry. They mention that the person who hurt them probably didn't intend to cause harm, but despite that, they did everything possible to inflict pain and suffering upon them. The narrator also notes that this person told them they had a worse life than theirs, but questions why, regardless of this situation, they are the ones paying the consequences.
"Why am I paying for it?" addresses the emotional pain and burden the narrator carries due to the actions and circumstances of their life. They question why they have to suffer the consequences and feel frustrated by the injustice of the situation. Aleandro Valente's voice is accompanied solely by string arrangements on the piano, which seem to be filtered, creating a muted sound and evoking the feeling of being immersed in deep memories. This musical choice contributes to the dreamlike and subconscious atmosphere of the song, immersing listeners in a rather melancholic landscape.
The vocal performance in this song stands out notably for the variety of techniques used, including falsetto in extended sections. This vocal versatility adds a deeper emotional dimension to the song, conveying poignant nuances of vulnerability and longing. Additionally, Aleandro's voice is enveloped in an incredible reverb effect, which enhances the dreamy sensation and transports the listener into a state of reverie.
11. Bite on a lemon
"Bite on a lemon" is the final track of this impressive album. In it, we encounter a defiant and direct tone towards someone who speaks ill or criticizes the performer. Throughout the lyrics, the narrator expresses an attitude of indifference and contempt towards that person.
The narrator begins by mentioning that his name is on the other person's lips but warns them not to choke on it. This suggests that the narrator is the center of attention and the envy of others around them.
Throughout the song, the narrator makes it clear that he have no interest in engaging with that person. He expresses that he don't care to continue or see through that relationship or situation. Instead, the narrator challenges the other person to "bite on a lemon" as a sort of defiance or punishment for speaking badly of him.
The chorus of the song repeats the phrase "Bite on a lemon" several times, reinforcing the attitude of defiance and provocation towards the other person. It is also mentioned that the narrator has a bittersweet taste, like tequila, which can be both bitter and sweet at the same time.
"Bite on a Lemon" stands out as the undeniable anthem of this album, thanks to its catchy lyrics and unique essence that conveys a captivating attitude. The song is characterized by a series of string arrangements performed on various instruments, adding a rich and immersive texture to the composition. Additionally, at key moments, the string arrangements are complemented by the presence of acoustic percussion, such as bongos, which add a special rhythm and energy.
The combination of the string arrangements and acoustic percussion creates an interesting dynamic in the song, elevating its sonic impact and contributing to the uniqueness of its sound. The moments where these elements intertwine provide standout and vibrant moments within the composition.
Through this album, Aleandro manages to convey his experiences and emotions in an authentic and moving way, connecting with his audience on a deep level. It's not just a display of vocal ability, but a showcase of the artist's astonishing artistic potential.
This release represents the beginning of a career that promises to be extraordinary. Aleandro's innate talent, combined with his unique artistic vision, positions him in a privileged position to make a lasting impact on the music industry. His ability to adapt to different styles and genres, along with his technical prowess, sets him apart as a versatile and complete artist.
The future of Aleandro Valente looks dazzling and full of promises. This album is a clear testament to his limitless artistic potential and his ability to thrill and surprise his audience, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the Pop and R&B music industry.