Latin rap-reggae with plenty of hooks and melody
Schuyler Corry | Eugene, OR | 08/24/1998
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Although this album has no commercial hits like "Rica Y Apretadita" (Rich and a Little Tight), "Damelo" (Give It To Me), or "Pata Pata", there are enough great tunes to make it more than worthwhile. The songs that Anayka guest-sings are in general the best on the album -- she takes the chorus, El General raps in between. On "Una Fiesta", she sings "lo que a una fiesta puede a ser -- enamore' otra vez". Other songs, such as "El Clavo" (The Nail) and "Rapa Pan Pan" may not immediately stand out, but over a few listens the hooks sink into your brain. In an age of recycled 1980s tunes, it's a nice change to hear a rapper who writes all his own material, adds a little melody and chorus, and is socially conscious (see "Poema II"). Think Neneh Cherry, but Panamanian."