Boom

Richard Lugo is a modern R&B singer cut out of the time-tested mold of "smoldering voice, big production," so much so that the opening tune, "All the Girl I Need," sounds like an 'N Sync tune, set apart mostly by the flamenco guitar. His style from there blends a little of the Latin pop flavor of Ricky Martin with the boy bands — and the formula works, thanks to fanciful vocal performances, solid grooves, and catchy hooks full of multi-voiced textured vocals. "Me" has a clever mix of many influences — a boy band-like vocal, the Jimmy Jam-Terry Lewis-inspired wall of synth sound, and techno. "Just Act Like" is a gentle, balmy ballad blending modern hip-hop, retro soul, and flamenco elements. "Ven Ven Ven" goes for the full Latin effect: jumpy horns, Latin piano and guitar, and soothing romantic passages to balance the busy production overall. Later tracks like "If I" and "Lil' Senorita" slow down the pace to give Lugo's voice a proper spotlight. He doesn't squander it. This album has a very commercial, "been there, done that" quality about it, but it's still chock full of potential hits and is a very engaging listen.