Though there are some in the Latin hip-hop movement who are taking the genre in an original direction, both with the inclusion of Spanish-language lyrics and Latino musical influences,
Latino Velvet is not among them. With the increasing strength and influence of Latinos on the urban music market, this disc is slightly behind the curve. With heightened visibility won by reggaeton and other Latin crossover styles,
Latino Velvet could have pushed the envelope further. The true believer might be left cold, hoping for a thicker accent.
Menudo Mix, the 2004 release from
Latino Velvet, is uncut West Coast hip-hop. From the subject material -- weed, women, and guns -- to the clean, compressed production, this release is consistent with the voice and tone of past works. Bay area natives
Frost,
Jay Tee,
Baby Beesh, and Don Ciscone put some sizzling-hot tracks together with their memorable hooks.
Menudo Mix will certainly please dedicated fans who have been patiently waiting since the 2000 release of
Velvet City. All veterans of the California Latino hip-hop scene, this all-star group delivers on its reputation. From the first to the last track,
Latino Velvet grimace, flex, and boast. From the architects of the style, there are few voices as bold and authoritative. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez