Lisa Morales’ fourth solo album, Sonora, released on Luna Records, represents a significant and heartfelt chapter in her musical career. Based in Austin, Texas, Morales has a strong foundation in Mexican music, a tradition she embraced alongside her sister, Roberta, during their childhood in Tucson, Arizona.

The album’s lead single, “Hermanitas in the Rain,” which debuted on July 23, 2024, serves as a tribute to Roberta. Morales poignantly shares that she began writing the song just three days before Roberta’s passing, imbuing the track with a deep sense of loss and love. The song is rich with cultural references, such as the Virgin of Guadalupe, and it vividly captures the sisters’ shared history and unbreakable bond.

While Sonora does touch on themes of mourning, especially in the final track “Hermana,” it transcends being merely an album of grief. Morales describes the creation of the album as an unconscious “purge,” resulting in a work that balances sorrow with the celebration of life and cherished memories.

The album is further enriched by collaborations with notable artists, including Tish Hinojosa, JoJo Garza, and Kelsey Wilson. A particularly touching inclusion is Morales’ son, Thomas Spencer, who adds guitar and vocals, continuing the family’s musical legacy.

Sonora stands as a deeply personal and culturally resonant album, showcasing Lisa Morales’ resilience and commitment to her roots, while also paying tribute to her sister and their enduring musical partnership.