La Vida Es . . . Un Ratico - JUANES

This album's pensive name and introspective title track belie a project with stronger rock undertones and more outright romanticism than previous Juanes efforts. What remain are the memorable melodies guaranteed to become hits and the distinctive guitar riffs, but with a decidedly more pronounced edge. The lyrics, which have always been a Juanes strong suit, are more developed and often gorgeous. "Minas Piedras," a duet with Argentine rocker Andrés Calamaro, boasts a barcarolle rhythm that underscores the sadness of land mine devastation, while "Bandera de Manos" has German rock star Campino singing in German and Spanish. Those yearning for more along the lines of Juanes' world hit "La Camisa Negra" can get a good dose of Colombian folk on "Tres." But overall, this is a more universal album, befitting a more universal star. —Leila Cobo