Dulce Beat 2.0

Belanova

Belanova hails from Mexico, but the chirpy pop trio's Dulce Beat has a vibe that draws inspiration from all over the world. The disc is awash in electro-lounge grooves, technicolor club beats and disco throwbacks. It's an arresting mix, anchored by lead singer and songwriter Denissse Guerrero's wispy, slinky vocals. At times Guerrero's assured delivery seems a hybrid of Aussie diva Kylie Minogue, female compatriot Julieta Venegas and No Doubt glamour-girl Gwen Stefani. In fact any of Belanova's songs would sound right at home on discs from that eclectic trio. Still, Belanova manages to be wholly original in its sound. "Escena Final" rides a galloping electronic groove, and the pop polish of "Miedo" benefits from just the right rock edge from its driving guitar work. High-energy, Euro-pop influences abound, particularly during the dizzying delight of "Nino," the luscious "Sonar" and the ping-pong rhythm of "Me Pregunto." Belanova also excels on the English-language "Sexy," a fluffy, flirty treat that--like the rest of Dulce Beat--soars to the pop heavens on a cotton-candy cloud. --Joey Guerra

Dulce Beat 2.0 Album: