Mareux’s Dark Summer Love Letter: Nonstop Romance

When Mareux announced the release of their sophomore album Nonstop Romance—a “confessional darkwave” of sorts—you better believe I was on the edge of my seat for its release. Mareux, the brainchild of Aryan Ashtiani, effortlessly blends goth and darkwave in a romantic way that lingers like a drunken love you can’t quite shake off even if you tried ( I’m currently still in that stuck phase). Since breaking through with the viral favorite “A Perfect Girl,” the project has garnered a loyal following that extends far beyond social media—onto foggy highways, into late-night bedrooms, and across dark dance floors. Nonstop Romance is no different and is well on its way to becoming the soundtrack of a passionate summer.

The album opens with the instrumental track “Blackmail,” picking up right where Mareux’s debut album Lovers from the Past left off. It greets listeners with a pulsing synth that immediately gets me moving—curiously thrilled for what’s to come.

On first listen, Nonstop Romance plays like a film, seamlessly transitioning from scene to scene—or song to song rather. Things really kick into gear with “Wild at Heart,” a personal favorite that’s seductive, smooth, and sexy in both lyrics and melody. It feels like a midnight drive through Los Angeles with the windows rolled all the way down. With its infectious hook, I’m absolutely in the driver’s seat. The album then gracefully slows down for “Ébèné Fumé,” featuring Riki. Her haunting vocals blend with Mareux’s to invoke a love that feels eternal, and the rhythm that backs them is equally as entrancing.

The album flows without a single miss. “Laugh Now Cry Later,” a personal favorite, captures heartbreak and release in perfect balance. Its lyrics—“Although it breaks my heart / Don’t wanna make it stop”—incite tears, while the beat dares you to dance through the ache.

Overall, Nonstop Romance stays true to its name, faithfully dancing with themes of love, nostalgia, and heartbreak. Artist Cameron McCool also beautifully captures the mood through the album’s artwork. With its melodies, lyrics, and hypnotic energy, Nonstop Romance isn’t just a sophomore success—it’s proof that Mareux is here to stay, with no stop in sight. Nonstop Romance is now available for your listening pleasure on all major streaming platforms.

Mareux Upcoming Live Dates:

Dec 12 — Pomona, CA @ Fox Theater

Dec 13 — Los Angeles, CA @ The Novo

More dates to be announced