Nelly Furtado delivers a fresh perspective with her a new album, "Mi Plan," her first all-Spanish record featuring prominent Spanish singers and Latin undertones that distinguish it from a typical pop album.
Coming off her 2006 hits "Promiscuous" and "Maneater," Furtado rebels by choosing to release a Spanish album instead of another mainstream chart-topper. Regardless, the album successfully delivers a creation that English-speaking audiences can enjoy, despite having no clue what she's saying. Her single, "Manos Al Aire," provides listeners with a catchy melody and fast tempo that anyone can dance to while occasionally singing along to easy phrases.
What distinguishes the album is the Latin feel that peeks through occasionally. Particularly in "Mi Plan," a great acoustic guitar solo emphasizes Furtado's ability to meld typical American pop with her Portuguese roots. She strikes out when she attempts to put Spanish lyrics to synthetic background beats like in "Más" and "Suficiente Tiempo." Both could have had English lyrics just as easily so English-speaking Americans could instead be bored in their native tongue.
Furtado did audiences a favor by rounding up as many internationally famous Spanish singers as she could to accompany her in several songs. Unfortunately for her, they out-sing her a few times. Furtado captures attention with a nasally voice that intrigues listeners on its own, but doesn't work so well with others. "Silencio" features Josh Groban, yet his pure and elegant tone is hindered by Furtado's grainier sound.
"Mi Plan" has a few great songs and a few forgettable ones, but it's successful overall because listeners won't feel like they need it translated to enjoy it. Furtado's guest singers and Latin melodies make it a strong showing that successfully deviates from the norm while still appealing to the masses.
Check out: "Más," "Manos Al Aire"
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