Album Review: Beso A Beso Culpame Fantasia Cabalgata by Grupo Gale, Luisito Carrion & Eddie Santiago
Alright, let’s get one thing straight—this album isn’t just salsa; it’s salsa con sabor. Like that extra dash of hot sauce you didn’t know you needed but now can’t live without. Hailing from Venezuela and flying proudly under the “Not On Label” banner (DIY kings, respect), this project brings together Grupo Gale, Luisito Carrion, and Eddie Santiago for a wild ride through love, regret, fantasy, and… horseback riding? Yeah, I said it. Let’s dive in.
The album kicks off with “Beso A Beso,” which is basically the musical equivalent of slow-dancing at your abuela’s birthday party after three glasses of coquito. It’s smooth, romantic, and dangerously easy to hum along to. The brass section hits like a warm hug while Luisito Carrion lays down vocals so buttery they could melt over toast. What sticks out here is how effortlessly catchy it feels—you don’t even realize you’ve been singing “beso a beso” all day until someone gives you weird looks on the bus. Trust me, it happens.
Then there’s “Cabalgata,” because why not throw some equestrian vibes into your salsa mix? This track gallops right out of the gate with an infectious rhythm that makes you wanna grab a partner—or failing that, a broomstick—and start spinning around the living room. Eddie Santiago steps up big time here, delivering lyrics about freedom and movement that feel as liberating as the beat itself. Is it deep poetry? Nah. But does it make you want to shout “Yeehaw!” in Spanish? Absolutely. Bonus points for making me reconsider my life choices every time I hear the word “cabalgata.”
Now, I won’t lie—the other tracks, like “Fantasia” and “Culpame,” hold their own too. They’re solid additions to any playlist designed to impress your tía who still has a poster of Willie Colón in her kitchen. But honestly, if you’re gonna remember anything from this album, it’ll be those two bangers above.
So what’s the verdict? If you’re looking for music that’ll light up your next family gathering or save you from awkward silences during road trips, Beso A Beso Culpame Fantasia Cabalgata has got your back. Just don’t blame me when you find yourself salsa-dancing in front of strangers at 2 AM.
Final thought: Who knew Venezuelan salsa could make me consider horseback lessons? Not me, folks. Not me.
