Humbe and Reik Drown Their Sorrows In “Malbec”
A toast to those nursing their heartache over tears and a glass of wine. If you’re looking for another song to add to your crying playlist, look no further. Mexican R&B artist Humbe and Mexican pop trio Reik have come to mourn with you. Named after the wine, “Malbec” follows the story after a breakup. While drinking, Humbe and Reik reminisce on the one who got away.
Who Are Humbe and Reik?
Humbe is a singer, songwriter, and producer alongside his brother, Emiliano Rodriguez. In the wake of Dia de Los Muertos, his 2023 single “fantasmas” went viral. Themed around the concept of loss, Humbe captured the feeling of a person’s absence with sentimentality. In an interview with mitú, he said: “It’s important to be authentic in your career. The style of music that I defend and that I sing is a style that’s very honest. I believe that I’m speaking from heart to heart.” Characterized by sentimental lyrics, his style blends naturally with Reik.
Formed in 2003, Reik is a trio composed of main vocalist Jesús Navarro, guitarist and background vocalist Julio Ramírez, and guitarist Gilberto Marín. Though they started out as a pop band, the group has since expanded their sound. Beginning with the release of reggaeton collaboration, “Me Niego” in 2016, they embraced other genres. Since then, Reik has collaborated with artists such as DJ R3hab, rapper J Balvin, and even K-pop group Super Junior. In “Malbec,” Reik return to their roots with Humbe, singing a ballad of heartbreak and longing.
Rose-Tinted Glasses of “Malbec”
In the music video, Humbe is surrounded by a crowd of people, all raising empty wine glasses. Only his glass is filled, pressed against his heart. Malbec has become his method to get over his heartbreak. Humbe smiles and socializes, until the alcohol hits — literally. A switch inside his mind flips as a bottle of Malbec is shattered onto his head. Like the broken shards of glass, Humbe and Reik struggle to piece together the fragments of their relationship.
Humbe and Jesus’ rich vocals stand out from the light instrumental consisting of acoustic guitar, drum loops, and synthesizers. Periodic distortion of instruments and vocals add to the feeling of disorientation that comes with each sip of wine. Clarity is found in the chorus of the song, where Humbe and Reik state their desires. “I want to give you more of me, of me / Give me a little more of you,” they sing with fervor. Even after the relationship has ended, they continue to find themselves stuck in the past.
Moving from outside to a dimly lit dance floor, Humbe becomes more bold in the quantity of wine he drinks. Even while being at a huge party, Humbe and Reik find themselves isolated. “It’s the elixir of life,” Humbe sings, referring to Malbec. However, just as temporary as the relief from drinking is, so is their relationship. Lost in memories, darkness slowly overtakes his surroundings. In the penultimate shot, Humbe stands over the sleeping bodies of party-goers. He finally lifts his glass to toast to the audience, acknowledging his heartache.
Want more music for your heartbreak journey? Read about Danna Paola’s “AÚN TE QUIERO” here.
