: The "Mentolate" (mentholated) branding refers to a fresh, polished take on the genre that strips away the heavier laments of traditional lăutărească music in favor of a sleek, "cool" urban pop sound. Lyricism and Themes
True to its title, the song uses automotive metaphors to describe romantic pursuit and flirtation. IULY NEAMTU - TEST DRIVE (Trag de Volan) Manele Mentolate
Released in September 2022, has solidified its place as a cornerstone of the modern manele scene, showcasing the distinct "mentholated" style of Iuly Neamtu and the Manele Mentolate production house. The track blends traditional Balkan rhythms with contemporary pop-dance energy, creating a high-octane listening experience that has dominated social media platforms like TikTok. Musical Composition and Production : The "Mentolate" (mentholated) branding refers to a
The song was produced, written, and composed by , a frequent collaborator within the Manele Mentolate circle. Clocking in at a concise 2 minutes and 30 seconds, "Test Drive" is designed for maximum impact, featuring: and composed by
Watch the official high-energy music video for 'Test Drive' featuring Iuly Neamtu:
Iuly Neamtu’s "Test Drive": The High-Energy Anthem of Manele Mentolate