Trinidadian soca superstar Machel Montano is turning up the heat with the release of his highly anticipated album, One Degree Hotter, dropping later this month via Monk Music.
The project marks Montano’s return to the studio after earning his Master’s degree in Carnival Studies at the University of Trinidad & Tobago—an accomplishment that inspired both the album’s title and its fiery energy.
“This album is a reflection of my journey—studying the roots of our culture while pushing soca to new heights,” Montano explains. “‘One Degree Hotter’ represents my mission to evolve the genre, blending its infectious rhythms with global influences.”
Featuring a scorching lineup of tracks, One Degree Hotter includes the high-energy anthem “Her Mudda” with Virgin Islands icon Pumpa, as well as collaborations like “Fling It Up” ft. Davido, “Pepper Vine” ft. Lady Lava and Drupatee, and “Fallen Fetters” with Skinny Fabulous. The album’s sonic landscape fuses traditional soca with Afrobeats, Indian percussion, and contemporary Caribbean sounds, cementing Montano’s status as a genre pioneer.
The release follows Montano’s historic NPR Tiny Desk performance, where he became the first soca artist to grace the platform. The set, which has amassed over a million views, was hailed as a defining moment for the genre.
As Trinidad & Tobago’s 2025 Carnival season approaches, Montano is also gearing up to defend his Calypso Monarch crown, with his single “PARDY” already being touted as a top contender for the coveted Road March title. If he wins, he will tie the legendary Lord Kitchener for the most victories in history.
With One Degree Hotter, Machel Montano continues to push boundaries, proving why he remains the undisputed king of soca.
