King of Kings
The self-aggrandizing title and cover art may indicate otherwise, but Don Omar'sKing of Kingsisn't your average reggaeton mash-up. Most genre stars (Daddy Yankee, Voltio, Wisin & Yandel) diffuse their heady personas with weak vocals, insipid lyrics, and repetitive arrangements. Omar, however, is an entirely different animal.King of Kingsis a dark, adventurous journey through reggaeton, supplemented by surprising rhythms and a careful selection of collaborators. Hip-hop violinist Miri Ben-Ari adds urban elegance to "Intro-Predica," and Juelz Santana brings a genuine grit to "Conteo."King of Kingsalso finds Omar experimenting with creative variations on the reggaeton sound. "Ojitos Chiquitos" benefits from a moody Middle Eastern vibe, and "Cuentale" soars via a start-stop salsa hybrid. Omar slows things down during "Tu No Sabes," a piano-driven tale of heartbreak; and "Candela" incorporates reggaeton beats into a searing rock arrangement. Omar's former life as a preacher has obviously influenced his lyrics (which touch on religion, love, and life's hardships), but it's also given him a heady, passionate approach to music. There are lighter moments of standard reggaeton and dance hall, but even those simmer with intensity. Omar's vocals aren't always strong--particularly during the slower moments--butKing of Kingsstands tall amid so many throwaway reggaeton releases. We'll allow him a few moments of boastful frivolity.--Joey Guerra