Barbara Isasi leads the band’s bold new era with a raw, high-energy single and striking visual release
Mandinga open 2026 with “Mala,” a new single and video that push their sound into a more modern Afrobeat-Latino and urban lane. Known for their live energy and Latin roots, the group now leans into a tighter, more replay-driven style built on rhythm, attitude, and direct delivery.
At the center of the track is Barbara Isasi, who takes a more exposed and dominant role than before. The performance feels stripped of filters, with a focus on control and presence rather than polish. The song builds around a looping hook and a steady, dance-focused beat, designed to hit fast and stay in rotation.
“Mala” marks a shift in how Mandinga approach both sound and identity. Instead of staying within the lines of their earlier Latin styles, the band opens up to new production choices that match the tone of each release. The result is a track that feels more aligned with current urban Latin trends while still carrying the group’s core energy.
Production plays a key role in shaping that direction. The track is driven by clean but punchy percussion, layered with bass-heavy movement and a polished mix that keeps everything tight and forward. A notable addition is Dani Joo, a 17-year-old bassist who steps in as executive producer. His involvement signals a generational shift in the band’s creative process and adds a fresh edge to the final sound.
The music video, directed by Rimenescu, reinforces the track’s tone with bold, controlled visuals. Isasi appears at the center of each frame, leading the movement and energy of the dancers around her. The choreography and styling match the song’s direct approach, emphasizing presence and dominance over subtlety.
Mandinga have built their name on live performance and crowd connection over the past two decades. With “Mala,” they translate that energy into a more compact, digital-ready format without losing impact.
As the first release of the year, “Mala” sets the pace for what looks like a wide-ranging 2026, with more music expected across both urban and traditional Latin styles.
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