Alma Ranchera

Alma Ranchera

Delicious--that's the perfect way to describe Spanish vocalist Rocio Durcal's <I>Alma Ranchera</I>. The appropriately titled songbook of ranchera classics seems written specifically for Durcal, who infuses every lyric with charm, class and a touch of sass. It's an alluring combination that crackles with a crisp, modern energy. The album is equally energized by the lush, exquisite production and arrangement of Memo Gil and Carlos Cabral "Junior," who have made <I>Alma Ranchera</I> a first-class affair. Durcal's take on such gems as <I>Vete a Volar, Cucurrucucú Paloma</I> and <I>Fiesta en el Corazon</I> is absolute perfection. She even tackles <I>La Media Vuelta</I>, a standard often associated with Luis Miguel, and makes it her own. Durcal's voice, always in fine form, is nothing short of superb here. It doesn't get much better than this. <I>--Joey Guerra</I>