LOS ANGELES (AP) — Rauw Alejandro, a Puerto Rican musician signed with Sony Music Latin and Duars Entertainment, continues to push boundaries with his latest release, “Playa Saturno.”
Throughout his career, Alejandro has consistently demonstrated his forward-thinking approach by infusing familiar genres with innovative twists. In an industry dominated by the popular “popetón” formula, he chose to incorporate R&B influences into reggaeton, setting himself apart. Alejandro skillfully expands on the foundation of Urbano Latino genres, characterized by the distinctive four-on-the-floor, three-beat percussive pattern (commonly known as the “boom-chk-boom-chk” rhythm), elevating it to new experimental heights. His musical exploration even extends to otherworldly realms, as evident in his concept album inspired by extraterrestrial themes, suggesting an artistic journey that reaches the farthest corners of the galaxy.
Surprising fans with a spinoff album following his 2022 release “Saturno,” Rauw Alejandro presents his fourth full-length project, “Playa Saturno.” This captivating album serves as an ideal soundtrack for a beach party in outer space, showcasing Alejandro’s impeccable musical instincts and paying homage to the artists who paved the way for his success.
The reggaeton legend, Ivy Queen, joins forces with Alejandro on the uplifting track “Celebrando,” delivering harmonious vocals that soar on the song’s soaring bridge. Spanish popstar Miguel Bosé lends his talent to the retro-reggaeton tune “Si Te Pegas,” while Mexican singer Junior H infuses his unique corridos tumbados style into “Picardía.” Puerto Rican duos Jowell y Randy and Ñego y Dálmata also make noteworthy appearances, contributing their classic Boricua reggaeton flavor to “Ponte Nasty” and “No Me La Moleste,” respectively, ensuring that Alejandro’s modern audience experiences the essence of traditional reggaeton.
“Playa Saturno” serves as a captivating musical history lesson across the Caribbean, evident in the steel drums of “No Me Sorprende” and the enchanting vocal melodies of “Hoy Aquí,” which are modernized through a retro-futuristic, synth-heavy production style.
Creating a spinoff album can be a challenging endeavor, as there’s often an assumption that the tracks may be of lesser quality or leftovers from the original release. However, that is not the case with “Playa Saturno.” Instead, it offers an alternative narrative within a broader musical universe. While there may be similarities between “Hoy Aquí” and “Lejos Del Cielo” from “Saturno,” such coincidences are to be expected when working within a similar sonic framework.
Despite any minor overlaps, the triumphs of “Playa Saturno” far outweigh these moments. The electro-pop lead single, “Baby Hello,” a collaboration with renowned Argentine producer Bizarrap, stands out as a prime example. Bizarrap, known for his viral BZRP Music Sessions on YouTube, injects innovative elements into the track, making it a strong contender for a late song-of-the-summer, perfect for those seeking a celestial party experience. As the album unfolds, it serves as a reminder that space is the ultimate frontier, and Alejandro’s music reflects the boundless possibilities waiting to be explored.