Limon Y Sal
Julieta Venegas' switch from moody, alt-rock chica to winsome pop star--via 2003's hit-packedSi--may have shocked some fans, but it also shed glorious pop light on an appealing new side of the Mexican singer. She's hardly looked back, andLimon y Saloffers a carefully crafted, dizzylingly diverse balance of both worlds. To be sure,Limon y Salis soaked in sunny, vibrant melodies, and Venegas' offbeat stylings and charming voice make even the most bitter break-up song worthy of a smile. Kick-off track "Canciones de Amor" is a sun-kissed ode to love's complexities, and first single "Me Voy" rides a nostalgic accordion groove. The luxuriously lazy title track features a galloping groove and easy choruses that are downright Beatles-esque in their poppiness. "Primer Dia" is a questionable moment, with its uneasy mix of synthesized grooves and rap breaks, but for the most part,Limon y Saloffers just the right mix of radio-ready shimmer and rock edges, thanks in part to production work from Coti Sorokin and Cachorro Lopez. It only gets better as you dig deeper: the racing chrouses of "A Donde Sea"; the regional kick of "No Sere"; or the retro club vibe of "Eres Para Mi." Prime, intelligent pop at its best--and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that.--Joey Guerra