Emerging from the refined creative energy of Montevideo, the collaborative musical project CRUZA—helmed by the multi-talented Lucia Molina and presented here under the artistic banner of Franklin Gotham—makes a striking first impression with the debut single “.38.” This is not merely an introduction; it’s a carefully curated aesthetic statement that signals the arrival of a sophisticated new voice in the global independent music scene.
Molina, already respected for her work as a visual artist and actress, brings a distinctly high-fashion, cinematic sensibility to the project. That visual instinct translates seamlessly into the sonic world of “.38,” where every note feels deliberately framed. The track exists in the moody space between modern jazz, cinematic folk, and retro R&B, forming a textured soundscape that immediately sets CRUZA apart from more trend-driven releases.
At its core, “.38” thrives on atmosphere. The production leans into smoky, old-world jazz textures while maintaining the sleek rhythmic polish of contemporary R&B. This careful balancing act gives the song a timeless quality—equally suited for late-night listening sessions and curated editorial playlists. The arrangement breathes, allowing Molina’s seasoned vocal delivery to take center stage.
Vocally, Molina channels the emotional authority reminiscent of Etta James while embracing the neo-soul intimacy associated with Erykah Badu. Yet she never feels derivative. Instead, she filters these influences through her own “Dark Academia” lens, creating a performance that feels both classic and distinctly modern. Her phrasing is deliberate, her tone warm but edged with quiet intensity, drawing listeners deeper into the track’s cinematic mood.
Lyrically and sonically, “.38” feels intentional in its restraint. Rather than chasing explosive hooks, CRUZA opts for slow-burn sophistication. The result is a sensual, retro-inspired listening experience that rewards close attention. Each instrumental layer—from the subtle jazz inflections to the polished R&B groove—adds depth without overcrowding the mix.
The timing of this release also feels culturally aligned. With Spanish-language artistry enjoying unprecedented global visibility, CRUZA enters the conversation not by following the dominant Latin pop formula but by carving out a more refined, genre-bending lane. Molina’s European-Spanish lineage and passion for soulful storytelling position the project at an intriguing crossroads of identity and sound.
“.38” ultimately functions as both a mood piece and a mission statement. It introduces CRUZA’s aesthetic world—dark, elegant, and emotionally textured—while hinting at significant artistic potential ahead. If this debut is any indication, Franklin Gotham’s presentation of CRUZA is not aiming for fleeting viral moments but for lasting artistic resonance.
In a landscape crowded with algorithm-friendly releases, “.38” stands tall as a deliberate, cinematic slow burn—proof that sophistication still has a powerful place in modern soul.
CLICK HERE TO STREAM | Franklin Gotham’s ".38 " on Spotify
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