Indeleble
Alejandra Guzman's biggest strength has always been the way she fiercely personalizes a song. Her unflinching approach to even the most casual lyric can makes an entire song crackle with a seemingly untapped electricity.Indelebledoesn't rock as hard as La Guzman's previous outings--including 2004's well-receivedLipstick--but it's nonetheless an alluring, effective record. There's more focus on Guzman's gorgeously weathered vocals and delivery, which are perfectly suited for the disc's themes of bruised relationships and female empowerment. Particularly effective are the pleading strains of "Volverte a Amar," a tale of conflicted love; and the absolutely gorgeous "Necesito Amarme," a soulful anthem of self-worth and the album's undisputed crown jewel. Kick-off track "Quiero Estar Contigo" moves from a gentle guitar intro to a blaze of uplifting choruses and symphonic instrumentation, and "No Estoy Llorando" benefits from a start-stop vocal arrangement. "Bye Bye" is a refreshingly lighthearted moment, buoyed by Guzman's sexy delivery and impromptu vocal licks. From start to finish,Indelebleis the sound of a woman whose passion and person aren't likely to be washed away anytime soon. Guzman, it seems, still has plenty to say, and it's a joy to listen to.--Joey Guerra