By Cynthia Gross
D.C.-based synth pop-soul artist Dracula Franchise turns up the heat with their steamy new single, “Marino,” featuring Meggalooch and Corsiola. Released on February 14, the bright, plush, and sensual track is the third and final single from the artist’s upcoming album scheduled to drop on April 1.
“Sometimes love leads to sex and sometimes sex leads to love—but love happens only if heads and hearts are in the right place,” Dracula Franchise explains. “The song is about the mystery and longing of falling in love. It’s a risky endeavor, but nothing worthwhile isn’t.”
“I remember when I met you / It’s like I knew our lives / Every inch of your body, I had to touch no matter the cost / As we started getting closer / My eyes froze / It’s hard to believe that I had the chance to get you out of your clothes,” Meggalooch sings in the opening lines of “Marino.”
The rest of the song pays homage to the sweet, real-life love story of Meggalooch and Corsiola, beginning with their immediate sexual attraction and blossoming into a lovely partnership that sets relationship goals for us all. Clearly, they are soul mates in life, love, and music. Mid-way through the track, listeners get a pleasant surprise in the form of a rap verse by Corsiola, showcasing his smooth lyrical flow full of emotional intensity.
In terms of instrumentation, “Marino” is dreamy and evocative, taking listeners on an exciting journey that is reminiscent of the thrill and wonder of falling in love. The expert musicianship is especially noteworthy. From sparkling synths to wailing electric guitars and syncopated drumbeats, the intricate and immersive musical palettes capture the fervor at the heart of the song to an impressive effect.
Characteristic of Dracula Franchise’s growing body of work, “Marino” is a layered and carefully crafted arrangement down to the details. As one example, after the lyrics, “So just let your guard down for a couple of hours, and let my lips be the proof,” an extended synth-tinged guitar solo soars in, symbolically giving the two flames time and space to consummate their love.
Led by multi-instrumentalist Tyler Elliott, Dracula Franchise is an eclectic and highly original talent. Their distinct sound effortlessly and authentically carves out its own space within the saturated market. Based on the momentum built by “Marino,” and their past two singles, “Seoul City” and “Cali Inspired California Dreams,” their upcoming album is not one to be missed, so stay tuned.
Follow our Alchemical Weekly Spotify Playlist for more great music featured on the site.
Cynthia Gross is a freelance writer and award-winning spiritual pop artist based in Maryland. With more than a decade of experience as an executive ghostwriter, she understands the power of each individual’s voice to create positive, meaningful change.
Recent Articles March 21st. A day that I will always think of amazing album releases. DC-based musician, producer, and singer-songwriter, Rachel Levitin, released Witty Banter
Alchemical Records is a Washington, D.C. based music publication. We cover the Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA metro area music scenes, including band interviews, articles about your favorite musicians, new music and concert dates.
