On the memorable single “Illusion,” Puerto Rican artist Ivelisse del Carmen crafts a dreamy jazz-bolero that balances vulnerability with minimalist charm — setting for a style she self-describes as “Minimalist Opulence.” Based in London, her classically trained soprano glides through heartrending strings and twinkling piano, exploring a late-night world of poetic melancholy. The track blends del Carmen’s own striking delivery with influences such as Billie Holiday and Sylvia Rexach, resulting in a haunting, sincere exploration of a tormented heart.
Heartrending strings and twinkling piano pulses craft a grandiosely affecting introduction, then giving way to del Carmen’s enchanting vocal presence. Gentle acoustics and intimate piano complement a vulnerable vocal introspection. “It’s a lie I tell to myself, it won’t last, ’cause you and I ain’t meant to be, you’re an illusion,” the quivering vocal captivation furthers, bolstered by gorgeous strings as the one-minute turn arrives.
Wordless, spine-tingling vocals mingle with an added string-laden vibrancy as the next section takes hold. Depictions of a tormented heart, in response to a beloved’s absence, consume with more romantic allure. Subdued, jazzy percussive minimalism and glistening keys then delight into the final sequence, where del Carmen’s haunting vocal harmonies coexist wonderfully with the hypnotic array of strings and keys. A melodic, sincere standout, “Illusion” is an excellent output from Ivelisse del Carmen.
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