Customer Reviews

Rio

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Aterciopelados finest yet! The fusion of musical styles on this album and seamlessly interwoven political themes is a fine example of what this band is all about. "RIO" has Grammy written all over it.

One comment I keep hearing from people about Los Aterciopelados is that they don't evolve with their music. I have to say that I agree with that especially when I feel that they are one of the few latin music bands that can definitely take things to another level. Why isn't it happening? Who knows. Perhaps they found their niche and so they don't feel the need to challenge themselves anymore including the work they did on their solo albums. That's fair game I guess. But not when it came to their last album OYE which i found absolutely dull. I felt then that I have lost all hopes on the band. Then I was surprised to hear that they're releasing a new album called RIO and yes, I was skeptical at first. I'm glad I checked it out because it is a good record. Not great but good enough. It's not inventive per say but it has the spirit of their past best work. Highlights for me are Rio, Bandera, Dia Paranormal, Madre, and Vals.

Without a doubt "Rio" is their best album yet, music with conscience, with a sense of humor, with life's joy.
Get it now, this will be one of the most important release of 2008.

I was lucky enough to receive a promo copy of this album and I could not wait till release day to tell the world how incredibly important this album, music and group is!!! I first heard about Aterciopelados when I heard lead singer, Andrea Echeverri on public radio a few years ago and was hooked. I began to Google her and learn about her punk rock roots and journeys through genres with musical partner, Hector Buitrago [with a solo album to his name as well] - and their live shows [thank god for youtube!]! As a woman, instantly I was taken by her powerful voice, poetic lyrics and sheer love of her own femininity.

On Aterciopelados' new album, "Rio" - along with the incredibly talented, Hector Buitrago, the group take it to a new level. I was aware they won a Latin Grammy for their last album "Oye" - yet, this album feels heavier and speaks to the world we live in; given the context of these times, it is a welcome soundtrack for hope, healing and growth. The album art alone is a beautiful testimony to life, water and color... [to contrast the concrete in Bogota].

The album starts off with the song "Rio" - a call to the rivers, to return back to their purest form - calling back the fish...it's a powerful song and lush in its arrangement. The album takes you on to different tempos, landscapes and sounds. A favorite song of mine, "Tomate" is a playful juxtaposition to more serious songs like "Bandera" - which speak about the violent nature of immigration and borders. The record ends calmly with "Aguita" - with traditional Andean flutes to carry you away to what is next...

Hasta la proxima...

Expected more from this CD but its not a bas one either. Very tribalish? I was looking for something more classic but still has a few good songs in it.

I like the way Aterciopelados always mixes the different sounds, electronic music with folklore from Colombia and the Andes.

Continuing in true "Aterciopelados" nature, this album will not disappoint. The album is full of femininity and just plain good music. Aterciopelados continue with their easy going melodies, folksy-rock melodies and positive lyrics that will just make you feel good. A real good album; favorite song is a "Peace anthem" song "Ataque de risas".

Rio is a wonderful album that is deep and thoughtful . It is a special album by a special band. It should go down as their best work to date. I was fortunate enough to hear the album already and it just feels like a landmark work.

Andrea and Hector are back with another stellar effort. Great to see Aterciopelados continuing to grow with each release. My favorite track is the self-titled "Rio."