Search - La Lupe :: They Call Me La Lupe

Solid, comprehensive album of songs by "La Reina"

J. Stanley | 06/25/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"They Call Me La Lupe (A mí me llaman La Lupe) is the first solo album by La Lupe on the Tico label and following her introduction to US audiences via Tito Puente. On this American solo debut, La Lupe comes with fresh and varied selections and her always strong vocals, setting a high standard for her future records to follow.



A variety of Latin styles are explored including guaguanco, samba, bolero, and son montuno. Though La Lupe is often remembered as a bolero singer, this album proves she did just as magnificent a job on uptempo styles. The album opens with "El Carbonero", a catchy horn-infused number where she shouts out her home town San Pedrito. Other uptempos include the dance inducing "Bomba Gitana" and the electrifying "El Cascabel". A fun cover of "América" of West Side Story fame is included, as well as a quirky cover of "Take It Easy" sung in Lupe's accented English. A few slow tempoed songs are included to balance out the fast paced tracks, and passionate, gut wrenching singing may be found among them ("El preso número nueve", "Alivio"). The "Lupe-isms" ("A jaí no ma!") she is known for are ever present throughout the songs, further distinguishing La Lupe as an artist. A personal highlight is "Soy Hijo del Siboney", an oft covered Cuban standard that becomes absolutely fire inducing when sung by Lupe.



Overall, this album presents a comprehensive presentation of all that makes La Lupe the musical treasure that she is. They Call Me La Lupe is a great introduction for anyone new to her music and should not go missing from the collection of any fan! Her voice exudes a boundless energy, fire, and uninhibited spirit that one can be hard pressed to find in any known singer past or present."