Enfermo de Amor

Bobby Pulido has a well established reputation as a genre-mixer. This is even more significant when his Tejano categorization is taken into consideration. Tejano and norteño are not known for their readiness to flirt with other musical traditions. Though Pulido doesn't push the envelope very far, he has a tendency to release projects that are more varied and stylistically diverse than the average Tejano record on the market. His 2007 production, Enfermo de Amor, is no exception. From the waltzing title track to the roots rock "Una Más" to the sophisticated, acoustic Latin pop "Desvelado Acústico," Pulido casts a wide net. The variety holds the listeners' attention, making Pulido's trademark graceful cumbia sound fresh rather than repetitive. Though the production quality is not quite top-notch, the songwriting certainly is. Pulido's voice, his band's sound, and the overall approach evoke a charming, approachable, and warm quality. The performances are organic rather than perfect, lyricism is true rather than elegant. Though Pulido's records had not topped charts for years before this record's release, he's been consistent in his artistic thrust and quality for the duration of his career. Enfermo de Amor is yet another gem of a production from a true industry mainstay.