By José Gandue @Gandour Photos by Javiera Villaseca
Let's talk about Concepción, a city located 500 kilometers from Santiago. This city has an interesting musical history, as it has produced such prominent bands as Los Tres, Los Bunkers, De Saloon, Santos Dumont and other more recent ones such as Manta Ray, Julius Popper and Planet No, Among others. But, also, currently, there is a thriving crop of female artists who are making a name for themselves in their country's cultural scene, with a growing audience both at their live performances and on digital platforms. One name that stands out is Daniela González, better known by the name of her project: Sweet and Sour.
González has premiered in recent days The Skin, ...a five-song EP that in less than two weeks has surpassed tens of thousands of streams and received positive reviews from the specialized press. Furthermore, He has accompanied his recordings with a limited publication of a printed collection of texts, which he has cataloged as «"poezine"» titled the same as her album. We took the opportunity to meet with her via WhatsApp and talk about her present, the topics on her mind, and what she envisions for the future:
How would you describe your current sound?
It's a pop sound, soft and quite ethereal, very much linked to the mainstream.
What influences do you have in your music?
I really like Elsa y Elmar, Rosalía, and Natalia Lafourcade. I really like Spanish music and female composers.
How do you see the role of women in the current pop music scene?
Recently, La Matria Fest She held a women's festival called Release the Water, With Latin American artists like Francisca Valenzuela, Anita Tijoux, and Mariel Mariel, this makes me think that women don't have a predetermined or defined role: they can do whatever they want. However, I want to emphasize that we can unite our music to defend causes, to defend the earth; I find that very inspiring.
You come from a city with a musical tradition, with prominent names in its scene, how does the music scene feel in Concepción?
Concepción has a strong rock 'n' roll reputation, if we delve into its musical history. But nowadays, the music made here encompasses various styles and sensibilities, and I like that. There's pop, there's trap, and there's poetry, and I, honestly, feel right at home (laughs).
How do you feel about your place in the Chilean independent music scene? It's a diverse scene with many surprises, isn't it?
I feel comfortable being independent, taking things at my own pace. I feel that gives me creative and personal freedom when making music. And here, in general, it works that way; it's a scene of self-management and struggle.
Alongside your new EP, you released a book of poems, a limited edition of 50 copies, something not very common among contemporary musicians. Where did that idea come from?
For me, music and poetry are two different ways of making songs. The possibility of making the object of Poezine, It all came together when I met Caro Castro Zamorano from Bestiary Editions. I told her about this project, and she designed and produced it until it reached the edition we have available today. There are very few copies left, and that makes me happy.
Are more similar projects coming in the future?
Yes! I intend to release a second conceptual EP along with another book of poems in August-September, this time about the Light and the Inner Shadow.
What's next for you, apart from that second EP?
A long wait (laughs). And hopefully, a reunion hug.
Are you feeling pessimistic about the quarantine?
I feel sad because I know there are people and animals out there who are hungry, homeless, and suffering. But personally, I consider myself fortunate because I can be at home working, and I'm taking this time as an opportunity for rest and introspection.