ESTAN STRANGE I is the fourth studio album by Mexican rock band Rey Pila, released on November 28, 2024, through Arts & Crafts México. The record marked the groupâÂÂs first full-length release since 2020âÂÂs Velox Veritas. Produced primarily by Diego Solórzano with contributions from American producer Paul Salva, Nathan Phillips, Lee Smith, and Charlie Hugall, the album incorporates tracks sung in both English and Spanish, expanding the bandâÂÂs retro-futurist sound into darker electronic and dance rock territory.
Much of the albumâÂÂs early writing and production took place during 2022 and 2023, with the band collaborating closely with DJ and producer Paul Salva. Solórzano described the experience as âÂÂlike going to music school,â noting that Salva pushed the group further into electronic territory and accelerated their artistic growth. Salva had previously remixed âÂÂAlexanderâ from the bandâÂÂs debut album. Some tracks were mixed UK-based Charlie Hugall (known for his work with Florence + The Machine), Nathan Phillips and Lee Smith.
ESTAN STRANGE I was well received internationally and in Latin America. UKâÂÂs FAULT Magazine praised its adaptive creativity and DIY production ethos, while Italian outlet SonOfMarketing singled out the single "One of Us" for its hook-laden blend of synth-pop and rock. In Mexico, Sopitas and Revista Marvin lauded the albumâÂÂs maturity and experimentation, and Rokkers called it âÂÂa bold new phaseâ in the bandâÂÂs career. SopitasFM listed the track "Fantasma" among the best songs of 2024.
To celebrate the release of ESTAN STRANGE I, Rey Pila performed a sold-out show at Auditorio BB in Mexico City, presenting the album live for the first time. Shortly afterward, the band supported French electronic duo Justice at their Mexico City concert. A deluxe edition of the album, featuring additional tracks, was released in 2025.