Dicen Que El Tiempo
Jennifer Peña made a name for herself in the now-languishing Tejano genre, butDicen Que el Tiempofinds her far removed from that localized sound. If anything, her '90s discs were a mere setup for the more polished, accomplished work she's released since signing with the Univision label five years ago. Peña seems comfortable in her role as a burgeoning pop diva, and her sprightly personality is what brings most ofDicen Que el Tiempo's best tracks to life. It's the fullest realization of her pop potential to date. Opener "Soy Asi (The Tequila Song)" is a pivotal kickoff point, celebrating Peña's diverse identity."Ladron" packs a fiery pop punch, and "Marzo 17" is a sun-kissed ode to love. Peña wrote most of the tracks with boyfriend Obie Bermudez, and the couple's chemistry translates well to disc. "Tu Mejor Amiga" brims with electro-tinged optimism, and sweeping first single "Como Entender" is in line with her best ballands. But it's the blaring ska groove of "Tus Besos" that will surprise fans. Peña's vocals are slinky, assured and light years away from her giggly, girlish beginnings.--Joey Guerra