Album Review: Mariana by Loppo Martinez – A Hidden Gem from 1978
If you’re into music that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, Mariana by Loppo Martinez might just be your next obsession. Released in 1978 under Warner Bros. Records Inc., this French album blends Folk, World, Country, and Pop with a dash of Chanson style. It’s the kind of record that makes you wanna sit by a window with a cup of coffee and let your thoughts wander.
Let’s talk tracks. First up, “Samba Cafe.” This one’s got a groove that sneaks up on you. At first listen, it feels like a lazy Sunday morning, but then the rhythm kicks in, and suddenly you're tapping your foot like crazy. The mix of acoustic guitar and soft percussion gives it this laid-back vibe, but there’s also something kinda mysterious about it. Like, what’s the story behind this café? Are people falling in love or plotting world domination over their espressos? The lyrics are in French, so unless you’re fluent, you’ll have to use your imagination—and honestly, that’s half the fun.
Then there’s the title track, “Mariana.” Oh man, this one sticks with you. The melody is simple yet haunting, and Loppo’s voice has this raw, emotional quality that hits you right in the feels. It’s not overly polished, which I love because it feels real. You can tell he poured his heart into it. I found myself humming it for days after listening. There’s a moment near the end where the strings swell, and it’s like—boom—goosebumps. That’s the magic of this album; it doesn’t try too hard, but it still manages to leave an impression.
One thing I noticed about Mariana is how timeless it feels. Sure, it came out in the ‘70s, but the themes and sounds don’t feel dated. Maybe it’s the way Loppo balances melancholy with hope. Or maybe it’s just that good music never really gets old. Either way, this album deserves more attention than it probably got back in the day.
Here’s the random thought I’ll leave you with: Listening to Mariana made me wonder if Loppo Martinez ever played these songs live. Like, did he perform “Samba Cafe” in some smoky Parisian club while people sipped wine and whispered secrets? Or was he more of a quiet guy who preferred recording in a studio? Whatever the case, this album feels like a little piece of his soul preserved in vinyl.
So yeah, give Mariana a spin if you’re in the mood for something different. Just don’t blame me if you end up daydreaming about French cafés and secret romances.
