Spanish-born, UK-based singer/songwriter Gizmo Varillas discusses the inspiration behind his latest album, ‘The World in Colour,’ in a revealing conversation about his warmly radiant fourth studio release. This album is an intimate and cinematic homage to the beauty, resilience, and interconnectedness of life.
The music of Gizmo Varillas possesses a captivating and almost ethereal charm. His songs radiate warmth, emotion, and texture, enveloping listeners like a gentle summer breeze that lingers well beyond the last note. Singing in either English or Spanish, Varillas has consistently created music that transcends both borders and language, delivering messages that speak directly to the heart. Over the course of four studio albums, this Spanish-born, UK-based artist has developed a sound that is vibrant with rhythm and brilliance—a blend of folk, pop, world, and cinematic influences that engages listeners not just to hear, but to truly feel.
His latest work, ‘The World in Colour,’ stands out as possibly his most vibrant album to date. Written and recorded over several years filled with significant life changes—transitioning from London to Brighton, getting married, and coping with his father's passing—the album represents both a sonic and spiritual rejuvenation. Despite navigating deeply personal themes, ‘The World in Colour’ is infused with light, gratitude, and optimism. It celebrates the full range of life’s experiences—its joys and sorrows, its highs and lows, and those stunning moments of beauty that exist even in darkness.
“In many ways, this album is about me reconnecting with myself and rediscovering my identity. It’s almost a declaration of who I am,” Varillas shares. “It’s about finding those little moments every day to pause and appreciate what you have. That’s the essence I wanted this album to convey—to remind people of life’s beauty and encourage them to take a moment to soak it all in.”
From the bright trumpet introduction of “Follow the Sun” to the powerful finale of “Hijo Del Mar,” Varillas carefully shapes each moment, interweaving acoustic guitars, subtle percussion, Latin rhythms, and surprising elements into lush, organic arrangements. Tracks like “Desde El Otro Lado” and “Ojos Nuevos” transform grief into catharsis, linking personal loss with universal experiences. Even as his lyrics explore vulnerability, the music uplifts—inviting listeners to dance, reflect, and embrace their own emotional journeys.
“I truly wanted the album to sound cinematic, as though it could accompany a holiday or a road trip,” he reflects with enthusiasm. “I aimed for it to feel like a companion that literally goes along on the listener’s journey.”
What makes Varillas' music resonate is its timeless and borderless quality. This characteristic explains why his songs have connected with audiences throughout Europe, why his recent tours have sold out venues across the continent, and why even non-Spanish speakers find themselves entranced by the rhythm of his Spanish-language tracks. His artistry is less about genre or formality and more focused on the emotional journey: the textures of percussion, the hue of a trumpet melody, the hypnotic allure of a groove. As Varillas puts it, music is a language of emotion—and he speaks it fluently.
“That’s the kind of music I aspire to create: something that’s there for you during both the highs and the lows,” he reflects. “Music has always been that for me. It has aided me in navigating life, and I hope my music can provide others with a sense of peace and calm. Understanding the power of music firsthand—how it has deeply influenced my life and well-being—is profoundly important to me. I wouldn’t know myself as I do without it; I wouldn’t have uncovered so much about my identity. It’s beautiful to share that and offer others a chance to do the same through my songs.”
At its core, ‘The World in Colour’ symbolizes both a homecoming and a statement of self. It finds Varillas confidently standing at the intersection of his past and future, embracing the entirety of his artistry. This album serves as a reminder that music can be both personal and collective—a realm for introspection and joy. It invites listeners to slow down, listen, connect with the earth, pursue the sun, and, above all, dance perpetually.
In our candid interview, Gizmo Varillas opens up about creating ‘The World in Colour,’ the love, growth, and grief behind his latest tracks, his use of unconventional instruments, and the unexpected ways music continues to shape his life.
“I’ve experienced a significant change with this album,” Varillas shares. “I can now comfortably express who I am without seeking validation—just saying, ‘This is me, and this is my story.’ I believe that’s my main message on this album: a proclamation of self and a celebration of my identity.
Dive into our full interview below, and if you're fortunate enough to have Gizmo Varillas performing near you this year
Spanish-born and UK-based singer/songwriter Gizmo Varillas discusses how he arrived at the concept for ‘The World in Colour’ in an open conversation about his warmly vibrant fourth studio album – a personal and cinematic tribute to the beauty, resilience, and interconnectedness of life.
