It's always an interesting thing to see what happens to an artist when they go from making their own artistic decisions, and praying that they break even, to wanting for little and becoming a major-label producer's canvas. Though Adassa's previous record, On the Floor, was distributed by Universal Latino, it was recorded for the independent Hoodlum Records. Her sophomore project, and first under Universal's direction, Kamasutra marks a serious if subtle change in direction. Her debut release featured strong hip-hop influence, some world music elements, and not a lick of Spanish. From the first track of her new record, one can imagine the sit-down talk Universal must have had with Adassa: "We're going to make you Crown Princess Reggaeton." Though there are other influences present, like a strong Caribbean presence, some of the Indian sounds fans of the first album will appreciate, and occasional English, there are more differences than similarities. From the heavy Spanish-language presence to the drum track's heavy Puerto Rican accent, reggaeton seems to be the wave of the future, and Adassa knows it.
© Evan C. Gutierrez /TiVo