Search - Sarita Montiel :: Leyenda

A much neglected artist gets her dues...finally!

02/15/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"After years neglecting the magnificent catalog of songs by Sarita Montiel, EMI Latin has released in the United States a serious career retrospective of this gifted artist. Montiel is one of the most original singers to ever come out of the Hispanic world. (And one of the most beautiful, too.) She is both sentimental and erotic; her style is modern even when she tackles songs written 40, 50 or 100 years ago. It is also amazing how she can achieve excellent results in different musical genres.This collection is heavily laden with wonderful "tried and true" boleros (Maria Dolores, Vereda Tropical, Perfidia, etc.) but it also gives us a taste of Sarita genius doing Brazilian tunes (Bahia, Ave Maria No Morro, Fantasia, etc.) She also gives us an international tour performing a blues in English "Besos de Fuego" (Lover They Call Me), the everlasting ballad "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" (El Humo Ciega Tus Ojos) plus the French classics "Autumn Leaves" (Las Hojas Muertas)and "La Vie En Rose." There also jazzy versions of "Besame Mucho," "Acercate Mas" and others but she almost outdoes herself with the tragic habaneras "Puerta Cerrada," and "Acuerdate de Mi." Just relax, look at the gorgeous all-color Sarita pixs included with this CD and listen to her singing her heart out. It will be a revelation even if you've never heard her before. Before I sign off I'd like to plead with EMI Latin for more Montiel releases in the immediate future... Come on guys, this lady has over 500 songs in your catalog so don't be stingy!"