Alma Ranchera

Delicious--that's the perfect way to describe Spanish vocalist Rocio Durcal's Alma Ranchera. 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 Alma Ranchera a first-class affair. Durcal's take on such gems as Vete a Volar, Cucurrucucú Paloma and Fiesta en el Corazon is absolute perfection. She even tackles La Media Vuelta, 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. --Joey Guerra