Vania

Vania, we have missed you! In the gap between Bamboleo's active recording career and the beginning of its various member's inevitable solo careers, la musica Latina hasn't seemed quite the same. With the release of Vania Borges' first solo record, entitled simply Vania, all is put right with the world. Vania's sultry, enchanting voice performing the compositions of the impeccably talented Alejandro Sanz is a match made in heaven. Tasteful, reserved arrangements in a deliciously pop-laced bolero style are the order of the day. Though all the musicians are clearly first-rate, they never compete for attention, or sound of place. The band of both tomorrow's stars and today's veterans include Rolando Luna on piano, arranger/producer Emilio Vega, drummer/timbalero Frank Bejerano and the seasoned Tata Güines on congas. There are few records being made these days that favor the emotive, romantic side of Latin music, and often for good reason. It's terribly difficult to hold a listener's attention with a record comprised entirely of ballads. That said, Vania Borges will have listeners eating out of the palm of her hand from track one to track twelve, and everywhere in between. Her sensitive, graceful approach will charm and croon its way into many an intimate dinner and rainy Sunday afternoon. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez, Rovi