Slow Joy - ‘Mi Amigo Slow Joy’ review
Slow Joy by Jay Martin
Since 2020, Esteban Flores, has been releasing single after single, captivating listeners with his deeply personal and emotionally resonant songs under the banner of Slow Joy. His music quickly gained traction on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, building a devoted fanbase of homies.
Following the success of his debut EP Wildflower released just last year, Slow Joy is back with his second EP, Mi Amigo Slow Joy available everywhere this Friday, 7 June via Mick Music.
Kicking off Mi Amigo Slow Joy is ‘4U’, a track that beautifully blends loud and dreamy shoegaze-inspired sound with introspective lyrics. Building on the sonic foundation laid in previous releases, ‘4U’ takes a slow approach to get the listener hooked. But there’s no denying that by the end of the first verse, the song picks up and packs the listener in for an intense ride throughout the rest of the song. That being said, the near-acoustic bit during the bridge is heart-shattering, giving the listener a taste of what’s to come throughout the EP.
Next is ‘Pulling Teeth,’ the EP’s first single and one of its standout tracks. The song features infectious melodies and gut-wrenching lyrics that reflect Esteban's talent for blending upbeat instrumentals with deep, introspective themes.
Dedicated to his significant other, the song is a heartfelt thank-you for enduring the tough times together. Lines like "I bet you're sick of pullin' teeth / But hold me down 'til I believe / That I'm okay, that I'm okay" encapsulate the emotional complexity of long-term relationships, something we explored in more depth in our recent interview.
The EP’s third track, and second single, ‘King Cowboy,’ continues to showcase Slow Joy’s signature sound with booming guitars and a relentless drumline. The song’s catchy vibe belies its deeper commentary on societal expectations, much like the thematic approach of Springsteen's "Born in the USA." It’s a compelling mix of engaging melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, and a very distinct single that, like its predecessor, is a vibe.
Last but not least, the album closes with ‘Lay Me Out, I’m Out of My Mind’, a track that epitomises Slow Joy’s evolution. This longest track to date encapsulates everything Flores has achieved in the past four years; all his songs summed up into one absolutely perfect track. The dreamy, soaring guitars and flowy drums create an immersive soundscape that allows listeners to get lost in the music. And somehow, strikes me as one of the most emotional songs we’ve heard. You can easily get lost listening to the song, and every emotion one feels does, in fact, hit the surface. It’s an emotionally charged song that brings the EP to a powerful and moving conclusion.
As far as EP’s go for 2024, one could easily say that Mi Amigo Slow Joy steals the show as one of the year’s most compelling releases. While not as heavy sonically as Wildflower, it’s a treat to hear Esteban Flores show a different side of his creativity, showcasing his versatility and growth as an artist. He skillfully balances the dreamy shoegaze elements that fans love with new explorations of sound and emotion. ‘Lay Me Out, I’m Out of My Mind’ is a perfect example of this balance, that we hope is offering a glimpse into the future of Slow Joy’s music, while honouring the past.
We’ve been listening to this one for months, and still Mi Amigo Slow Joy leaves us floored. Flores’ ability to convey profound emotions through his music makes it a must-listen for fans old and new.
Mi Amigo Slow Joy by Slow Joy is out Friday 7 June via Mick Music. Pre-save the release on your favorite platforms. Catch Slow Joy on tour this summer with Free Throw, and this September at the iconic Ohio Is For Lovers Festival.
