Regalo Del Alma

The cries of "azucar" are unmistakable on Regalo del Alma, the posthumous album from salsa queen Celia Cruz. Though she was battling cancer at the time of its recording, Cruz sounds positively electric throughout the 11-track collection, which effortlessly melds native Cuban rhythms with soulful grooves and pop sensibilities. She teams with rap star El General on album opener "Ella Tiene Fuego," an irresistible call to the dance floor. The album's first single, "R­e Y Llora," simmers under a Santana-esque guitar lick; and the bittersweet, deceptively cheery "Diagn³stico" finds Cruz visiting her doctor because she is homesick for her native country. Cruz's strength lies in her ability to personalize every song she sings; she makes every lyric, every word important. Anchored by her weathered, one-of-a-kind vocal delivery, Regalo del Alma stands as a glittering testament to a woman whose talent, spirit, and grace continue to carry the music straight to the hearts of anyone willing to listen. --Joey Guerra