Since Ricky Martin started his solo career, he has become the figurehead of Latin pop. He scored hit after hit, paving the way for other Latin American stars like Shakira and Juanes. With his three English-language albums, he also won the non-Spanish-speaking part of the world. Worldwide he sold more than sixty million albums, including those from his boy band era. With the DVD MTV Unplugged, Martin
… returns to the basics in every way: of his greatest hits - She Bangs, Livin 'La Vida Loca, Shake Your Bon-Bon - only María passes by, not a word of English is spoken and all electronic magic boxes. have been exchanged for acoustic instruments. The band easily manages to keep its characteristic bombastic dance numbers with rousing percussion and unparalleled guitar solos upright. And apparently Martin knows that too: where he previously had a battalion of guest musicians approach, it is now only Mari, singer of the Spanish flamenco lounge band Chambao, who makes her appearance in the ballad Te Recuerdo. (MH)more
