Barcelona-born composer, musical director, performer, and singer Manu Guix will bring his new EP, "Galàxies" (Galaxies), to the city's stage. He performs at Sala Apolo, a prominent music venue in the Poble-sec district, on 24 October. This follows his initial presentation at the Strenes Festival in Girona on 18 April.

"Galàxies" Explores Love and Life

Guix's latest work, a six-track EP, centres on the universal theme of love. He drew inspiration from the late musician Pau Donés. Guix recalled Donés's reflections on life's most important aspects. "What do we do in life? Love and be loved!" Guix stated, emphasising this message. He explained that at 46 years old, having lived more than half his life, this message resonates deeply. This marks his first monographic album, focusing exclusively on a single theme.

His perspective on love has evolved with age. Guix believes love transforms and presents many forms. He noted that loving is not always easy. It sometimes requires difficult choices or sacrifices. "Loving means letting go," he explained. He views love as an adventure, always advocating for it to be the driving force, especially in a world he describes as "sick."

Challenging Sexual Stigmas

Guix addresses themes of sexual liberation in his music, particularly in the song "Astres" (Stars). This track speaks of a free and uninhibited night. He aims to challenge existing stigmas around sexual expression. Guix believes society often associates sexual freedom with younger ages. He actively disputes this notion. "Having a certain age does not mean not being able to be sexually active," he asserted. He encourages open communication within relationships to maintain excitement. He mentioned exploring new stimuli, such as sex shops or partner exchange clubs, to keep the spark alive.

His music video for "Astres" sparked varied reactions online. While most comments were positive, some expressed disapproval. Guix received remarks like, "What a poorly managed crisis," or "How disgusting." He dismissed these criticisms. "What is the problem?" he questioned. He deliberately cast actresses close to his age, around 36, and included a male actor to avoid a specific dynamic. Guix firmly believes the issue lies with those who judge.

Father's Enduring Influence

Another song, "Més enllà dels estels" (Beyond the Stars), addresses the profound grief from his father's death. Guix has dedicated three songs to his father, finding the process therapeutic. He composed the latest track in Planoles, a family retreat where he feels connected to his father. "I will never overcome my father's death," Guix shared. "It is a pain that does not disappear; you simply get used to living with it." His father died 25 years ago, and Guix finds it striking how he has forgotten his voice. He noted he is approaching the age his father was when diagnosed with his illness.

Guix credits his father as a significant inspiration for his musical career. Although his parents were doctors, the artistic side came from the Guix family. His grandfather, a surgeon, played the organ and loved music. Guix's father, uncles, and other family members also played instruments and sang. His father encouraged him to be his own boss. At 14, his father helped him establish a small company to support his musical endeavours. Guix still uses this company today. He often wonders how proud his father would be to see his current studio, Medusa. "He was my number one admirer," Guix stated, expressing a deep sense of gratitude.

Changing Family Dynamics and Future Projects

Now a father himself, Guix consciously changes certain aspects of his upbringing. He recalled his parents never saying "I love you" and not seeing displays of affection between them. "My parents never told me 'I love you'," he revealed. He actively tells his children he loves them every day. He also expresses affection to other loved ones, believing it is said too infrequently. "At home, I want 'I love you' to be said," he affirmed.

Despite a demanding schedule, including his role as musical director for "Operación Triunfo (OT)", Guix finds joy in his work. He collaborates with close friends, including Roger Rodés at Medusa and Àngel Llàcer for musical theatre. He also works with Noemí Galera on "Operación Triunfo". "Working means I go to see my friends," he explained, adding that he is very happy. He even finds long holidays tedious.

Guix remains committed to Catalan musical theatre. He has collaborated with Àngel Llàcer on several productions, including "El petit príncep" (The Little Prince). He expressed enthusiasm for the growth of Catalan musicals. Guix acknowledged that subsidies from the Generalitat, the Catalan government, have likely supported this expansion. Large-scale productions require millions of euros, previously funded solely by private entities. He hopes government aid will continue. Guix has several musical projects planned for 2027, 2028, and 2029, with a particular interest in original Catalan creations. He also confirmed his decision to sing in Catalan is not political. "I do it in Catalan because I am Catalan," he stated. "It comes naturally to me."

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Originally published by VilaWeb Feed. Read original article.