Dino Latino Review: Dean Martin’s Unexpected Latin Twist
Let’s get one thing straight—Dean Martin wasn’t exactly the first name that popped into your head when you thought “Latin music.” But here we are in 2017, decades after his heyday, with Dino Latino, a compilation album that feels like a warm, slightly tipsy hug from the Rat Pack era. This isn’t just another dusty reissue; it’s a reminder of how smooth Dean could be when he stepped outside his usual crooner comfort zone.
The genres and styles? Oh, they’re all over the place—Pop, Jazz, Bolero, Cha-Cha, Mariachi—you name it. It’s like someone handed Dean a piñata, and instead of candy, out came every Latin rhythm under the sun. And honestly? He nails it. Well, most of the time.
Two tracks stuck with me more than the others: “Besame Mucho” and “South of the Border.” Now, I know what you’re thinking—“Besame Mucho” is everywhere, right? Like, does the world really need another version? But hear me out. Dean doesn’t just sing this classic; he lives it. His voice has this lazy, confident swagger, like he’s leaning against a lamppost at midnight, tipping his hat to whoever walks by. The arrangement by Don Costa adds this lush, dreamy vibe that makes you wanna grab someone for a slow dance—even if that someone is your cat. (No judgment.)
Then there’s “South of the Border,” which is basically the musical equivalent of sipping a margarita on a beach. It’s fun, flirty, and full of energy. Dean sounds like he’s having the time of his life, tossing out lyrics about fiestas and senoritas like confetti. You can almost picture him winking at the audience through the recording booth glass. Sure, it might not be deep or groundbreaking, but who cares? Sometimes you just want something that makes you smile.
What I love most about Dino Latino is how it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel—it’s just giving us a front-row seat to Dean being effortlessly cool while playing around with different styles. And let’s not forget the credits crew behind the scenes. Kudos to Don Costa for the arrangements, because without him, these songs might’ve fallen flat. Also, props to Jim Jonson (or was it Jonson Jim?) for the cover art—it’s got that retro charm that screams “buy me!”
So yeah, Dino Latino is kind of a gem. Not perfect, but charming as heck. Listening to it feels like finding an old vinyl in your grandparents’ attic and realizing it still works. It’s nostalgic but also kinda timeless.
Oh, and here’s a random thought to leave you with: If Dean Martin were alive today, do you think he’d drop some reggaeton remixes? Just saying…
