Caraluna
Pop/rock/tropical fusionists Bacilos elevate their game here, employing classy violins, gorgeous harmonies, and easy-to-hum rhythms. The songs are tighter, more thoughtful, and, ultimately, more radio friendly. The winsome 11-track set kicks off with the first single "Mi Primer Millon," a tongue-in-cheek tale about breaking into the big time. The horn-fueled tropical tune begs for dance-floor action. The hopeful title track keeps up the seductive dance grooves fusing elements of rock and tropical flavors that recall bachata master Juan Luis Guerra. But beyond party tunes, Bacilos also take time for reflective tunes. "Solo un Segundo," which soars with its almost rap-like precision lyrics and lovely harmonies, takes on the memories that came in a second, but last a lifetime. Taking page from the Beatles' pop melodies book, "Nadas Special" combines relaxed rhythms and catchy harmonies while singing about the end of the world. Superbly talented and rapidly maturing, and now winning Grammys, Bacilos is a player to watch.--Ramiro Burr