No Soy De Nadie

Innovative and edgy aren't adjectives often associated with the staunchly traditional sounds of ranchera music, but they're perfect to describe No Soy De Nadie, the first effort on Sony Discos from Pepe Aguilar. The transition not only has inspired the singer, it's liberated him to mix a musical blend that's unlike anything in the genre. Carefully produced instrumentals, thoughtful songwriting and layered vocal arrangements give No Soy De Nadie the polished veneer of a pop album. Aguilar's delivery, however, roots the music in something personal and intimate. It makes for an intoxicating blend. "Se Fue De Mi (Aunque Respiro No Vivo)" and "Miedo" wouldn't be out of place on Spanish pop radio, while "Te Casas y Me Olvidas" and "Un Mexicano No Llora" have the gorgeously weary stamp of cantina classics. But it's ultimately Aguilar's confidence in his considerable talent that makes No Soy De Nadie one of the year's most solid and satisfying albums. --Joey Guerra