Gizmo Varillas | Biography

Gizmo Varillas, the UK-based Spanish singer-songwriter, has created an elusive sound that combines his incredibly diverse musical influences and the endless list of instruments he uses. He creates a powerful combination of simple yet profound Bob Marley-esque lyrics driven by Paul Simon melodies, relaxed Jack Johnson grooves, John Frusciante guitars and lots of Latin and Afro influences.

Gizmo Varillas, the British-based Spanish singer-songwriter, has created The World in Color, a work with which he impressively continues his enormous musical development and personal journey. With his elusive sound, he combines influences from Latin, Afrobeat and pop, enriched by the finely chiseled guitar style of John Frusciante, the melodic tenderness of Paul Simon and the relaxed grooves of Jack Johnson. His lyrics, characterized by simplicity and depth, are reminiscent of the spirituality of Bob Marley and always carry a message of universality and humanity.

After three acclaimed albums, including Out of the Darkness (2020), and over 300 million Spotify streams, Varillas has expanded his career from insider tip to critical darling and successful world pop star. His distinctive style and personal touch not only earned him placements in commercials, TV series and soundtracks, but also a loyal, worldwide fan base. His recent sold-out club tour through Europe attracted 10,000 fans to whom he offered the first glimpses of the tracks from the new album - a milestone that marks the beginning of a new chapter in his impressive career. In 2025, Gizmo Varillas and his band will go on a more extensive tour of larger venues.

The World in Color is Gizmo's most personal work to date, inspired by formative events in his recent past: the loss of his father, his wedding, moving with his family to Brighton - back to the sea, which has accompanied him since his childhood in Santander. These personal changes are reflected in songs like Ojos Nuevos and Desde el Otro Lado. The moving ballad Ojos Nuevos, which Gizmo wrote the day before his father's death, is carried by the delicate harp of Amanda Whiting. It addresses the moment when you realize how precious life is. Desde el Otro Lado, a quiet and introspective track, was created during the many hours Varillas spent by the sea - a hymn to the intimate connection to water, which is also reflected in the majestic Hijo del Mar.

But The World in Color is more than just a reflection on loss. It's an album that celebrates the range of human emotions. The opening with Alfredo Pino's trumpet fanfare on Follow the Sun tells of a hopeful departure for new horizons - inspired by a trip in a camper along the south coast of England. Where is the Love touches with Motown bass lines, reggae guitars and Rob Lewis' lush string arrangements. The title calls for unity in a torn world and reminds us of our shared humanity. Crossroads combines Americana, funky guitars and ska organs into a musical reflection on life as an artist. Into the Night delights with driving wah-wah guitars, pulsating bass lines and magical realism - a declaration of love for embracing life with all your passion.

Gizmo Varillas remains a tireless pioneer who always follows his own path. His extremely detailed music is not characterized by standard templates or interchangeable productions. He plays most of the instruments himself, complemented by selected guest musicians, creating an unmistakable sound that captures the diversity of his influences. With The World in Color, Gizmo Varillas shows that music is not just an art form, but a universal language that connects people. His songs are small works of art full of cinematic soundscapes, imbued with emotion and authenticity. They tell stories of loss, hope and the beauty of the moment - and take the listener on an intimate, global journey. His music embraces the world. And somehow she also hugs the listener.