Album Review: Malos Pensamientos by Miguel Mateos (1990)
Released in 1990, Malos Pensamientos is a vibrant snapshot of Miguel Mateos’ musical evolution, blending Rock, Latin, and Pop influences into a cohesive Pop Rock style. Backed by labels Ariola and RCA, and co-produced with Michael Sembello, this album stands as a testament to Mateos’ knack for crafting catchy yet meaningful tunes that resonate across borders—especially in Mexico and Argentina.
One track that sticks out is Tirar Los Muros Abajo. It’s hard not to get hooked by its driving rhythm and anthemic vibe. The song feels like a call to action, urging listeners to break barriers both literal and metaphorical. Its energy is infectious, making it one of those songs you can’t help but hum days later. Mateos has always had a way of mixing optimism with grit, and this tune nails it. You can almost picture the packed stadiums he’d fill with this track—it’s got that kind of universal appeal.
Then there’s the title track, Malos Pensamientos. If Tirar Los Muros Abajo is about breaking free, this one dives headfirst into introspection. The lyrics linger on darker thoughts but manage to wrap them up in an upbeat melody. It’s kinda ironic how something so relatable can sound so fun at the same time. The guitar riffs are sharp without overshadowing Mateos’ vocals, which carry just enough raw emotion to make you feel every word.
What makes Malos Pensamientos special isn’t just its polished production or memorable hooks; it’s the way Mateos balances personal storytelling with broad themes. Sure, some tracks lean more toward formulaic pop-rock structures, but they’re done with such authenticity that it doesn’t really matter.
Reflecting on this album now, it’s wild to think about how much music has changed since 1990—and yet, these songs still hold their ground. Maybe it’s because we all have bad thoughts (malos pensamientos) sometimes, or maybe it’s because we all want to tear down walls holding us back. Either way, Mateos created something timeless here.
Fun fact? Listening to this album today feels like chatting with an old friend—you know, the kind who tells it like it is but still leaves you smiling. Who would’ve thought a record from three decades ago could feel so current? Guess that’s what happens when you mix rock ‘n roll heart with pop smarts.
