Andrea Echeverri
Intentionally or not, Andrea Echeverri's self-titled solo disc plays like a natural sequel to Julieta Venegas'sSi. It's a comparison that both helps and hinders Echeverri, best-known as the lead vocalist for Colombian rock heroes Aterciopelados. All 12 tracks (and a bonus remix of "A Eme O") ride a mid-tempo, chill-out groove, anchored by Echeverri's thoughtful vocal work. And like Venegas's outing, Echeverri's album is a marked difference from earlier work, leaving behind crunchy rock guitars for lullaby-like arrangements and soulful grooves. But whereas the commercial appeal of Venegas'sSihad the taste of a calculated career move, Echeverri's work seems like a natural extension of her musical instincts. In fact, the album touches on Echeverri's recent pregnancy and the joys of motherhood, which gives the album the wistful, personal feel of a love letter.--Joey Guerra