Amarte Es Un Placer

The outstanding success of the world's top Latin artist has been evidenced by millions of records sold, numerous Grammy awards and sold-out concerts worldwide. Luis Miguel presents us with a project that combines the sounds of today's pop and dance rhythms as well as ballads that could only be sung by the unmistakeable voice of this one-of-a-kind artist. Certified Gold by the RIAA. (11/99)

Too much might never be enough for fans of Latin pop superstar Luis Miguel's swooning balladry. For discerning listeners, however, Amarte Es Un Placer is the same old song and dance. The album balances swooning ballads with up-tempo numbers, much like Miguel's previous Nada Es Igual and Aries. Admittedly, Miguel displays a wonderfully expressive voice, particularly on "Tu Mirada," "Soy Yo," and "O Tú o Ninguna," but other problems surface. Up-tempo numbers such as "Sol, Arena y Mar," "Quiero," and "Dímelo en un Beso" feature tepid arrangements akin to background music for a Miami Vice episode, and Miguel doesn't inject any real rhythm into the songs. The sole exception is "Te Propongo Esta Noche," which breaks into a pulsing club beat. Miguel would be wise to follow that same path next time around. --Joey Guerra