For the first time in eight years, Gloria Estefan, the reigning Queen of Latin Pop, has released an English-market studio album. Little Miss Havana has more dance music than her previous English-market album, 2003’s Unwrapped. Before listening to this album, I had a few questions: “Will this dance album be better than Estefan’s 1998 Gloria?” “Is this album on the same level as Jennifer Lopez’s LOVE?” “Will the collaboration with Pharrell Williams hinder or help Estefan’s new record?”
This album has gone above my expectations and I do not get what some of the iTunes’ user critiques that said Ms. Estefan had sold out her music. This album has been one of the best dance-pop albums that have been released in 2011. With the catchy lyrical hooks and the great background music that goes with these songs, I consider Miss Little Havana to be one of Ms. Estefan’s best albums to date.
Here are some of the highlights of the album:
“Little Miss Havana”- The title track is one of my favorite tracks of the album. It shows off Ms. Estefan’s soothing voice and brilliantly combines a horn section with a great beat. On top of that, the lyrics are catchy and it weaves a really good story. Grade: 4.5/5 A-
“Heat”-This third song on the album starts out with this house-like music and then Gloria enters with her vocals. “Heat” reminds me a lot of Jennifer Lopez’s “Hypnotico” because of its’ tendency to put listeners under a trance. Also I really like hearing “Conga’s” drum solo within the song. Grade: 4/5 B-
“Wepa”-This song was Little Miss Havana’s first single. Talk about a great song to dance too. “Wepa” is perfectly blends the brass, percussion and chanting from backup singers. I would highly recommend using this song when you are working out! “Wepa” is one of the best songs of the album. Grade: 5/5 A+
“Hotel National”-Another terrific song from start to finish! I could definitely see Estefan use this song as a music video. I like how there is a perfect blend between the techno house music in the background and the horn solos. “Hotel Nacional” features other languages including French and Spanish. Grade: 4.5/5 A-
“Make My Heart Go”-From the minute I heard the quick tempo dance music, I knew that listeners were going to be in for a treat. Like “Wepa,” “Make My Heart Go” is a great workout song if you need motivation. This song also features a rap solo, horns, a verse in Spanish and of course great vocals from Ms. Estefan. Grade: 5/5 A+
Final Thoughts and Overall Grade: This album is a must listen to and if you are a Gloria Estefan fan, this is a must buy for you. For Britney, Lady GaGa and Jennifer Lopez fans…Estefan is the Original Queen of Dance Music, please try listening to the album. Once you get hooked, there will be no stopping you from listening to this music 24/7. A-
I’d have to go along with with you one this subject. Which is not something I usually do! I enjoy reading a post that will make people think. Also, thanks for allowing me to speak my mind!