"Sometimes" is a great introduction to the rest of this album because it showcases what Si*Sé does best: complex songs with layer upon layer of sound. From keyboards to strings and a thumping bass, this song (and this album) isn't so much a wall of sound, but a sonic sea. It's hard to classify this band because they incorporate so many different sounds. They combine Latin and world rhythms with electronica and soul. Each song seems to have a different mood, but two things remain constant throughout the album. Carol C's vocals are entrancing. Her voice is so beautiful, it doesn't even matter if she sings in English ("Sometimes," "The Truth," "More Shine") or Spanish ("Amiga," "Agua"). The other constant element is the layering of sound. I wouldn't say they remind me a whole lot of anyone, but I do catch some sounds similar to Cocteau Twins and Everything But the Girl.
Let me give you an idea of how good Si*Sé is at crafting songs. "Agua," especially at the beginning, is actually a little too disco for my tastes. But the song won me over because of the rhythms, vocals and the Middle Eastern influences.
I don't even know what else to say about this album. I'm impressed by the layers of sound. Also, this is about as soulful an album as I've heard in a while. Carol C's vocals alone make this album worthwhile. If you like electronica, soul, Latin, world music, or any combination of the above, this is an album you should check out. Go ahead. Dive into the sonic sea. You don't even have to wait 30 minutes after eating.
