Gloria Estefan

Destiny

File under classic

Review Score:

(10/10)
If I was to define Gloria Estefan in a sentence I would have to say that she is one of few artists who deliver original and contrasting styles of music with each album. I was not prepared for this album whatsoever with its rich, textured afro-cuban percussion instruments, prayers and lullabies.

Destiny does not contain a mass of latin-pop romps which Gloria is loved for, and even the 2 uptempo trax are saturated in organic instrumentation as opposed to hi-tech synths. Party-Time is an infuratingly catchy toon about living life to the fullest, and Higher takes you there (but not through narcotics which the song denounces). These were 2 highlights of the Evolution Tour.

The album is also revealing in Gloria's introspective song-writing skills and deep subject matter. The title track enforces the magnetic power of love which overrides all social barriers and mores, and the following track I'm Not Giving You Up is a hauntingly melancholic and dark but defensive determination to hold on to a love gone wrong ('screaming in the silence the promises we've spoken')- stirring words that paint a rich canvas of emotions.

It is also baby Emily's turn to have a song written about her (since Nayib had one in Gloria's previous English Language album), one which celebrates the joy of unexpected circumstances.

Path of The Right Love and Steal Your Heart are again very evocative and visual songs about love and its strange stirrings. Personally the album's corker is the Diane Warren penned Show Me The Way Back To Your Heart. This song sends shivers up the spine as she yearns for a lost lover to return to her arms. The simplicity and sincerity of her voice make you belive the song and that she is living the pain. Why it was never a single release is one of Mr Mottola's less finer moments in selecting song releases. You live and learn.

No matter, what you have here is a textured musical fresco which stirs and moves. Perfect to listen to as the sun is setting, with a glass of wine in your hand.

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