Album Review: Tolerancia by Lujjan – A Rock-Latin Time Capsule from 1987
Alright, let’s talk about Tolerancia, the 1987 album by Lujjan. If you’re into that sweet spot where rock meets Latin vibes, this one’s got some gems worth dusting off. Released in Mexico under the Ariola label, it’s not exactly a chart-topper today, but man, it’s got character. It’s like finding an old vinyl at a flea market—you don’t expect much, but then BAM, it hits differently.
The tracklist? Solid. You’ve got songs like “Tu Seras MI Baby,” “Dijiste Si,” and “Cruel Realidad.” But if I had to pick two tracks that stuck with me, I’d go with “Despierta Ya” and “¿Que Es El Amor?” No lie, these two are earworms for entirely different reasons.
“Despierta Ya” is straight fire—like, wake-up-kick-in-the-pants energy. The guitar riffs slap hard, and the lyrics feel urgent, like someone shaking you by the shoulders saying, “Yo, life’s passing you by!” It’s catchy as hell, too. Like, you’ll be humming it while brushing your teeth or whatever. And honestly, isn’t that what makes a song stick? When it sneaks into your day without even trying?
Then there’s “¿Que Es El Amor?” which flips the vibe completely. This one’s slower, more introspective, almost like a late-night heart-to-heart with yourself (or maybe a bottle of tequila). The vocals here really shine—they’re raw and full of emotion, like the singer’s pouring their soul out. It’s not perfect, but that’s kinda why it works. It feels real, you know? Like they weren’t trying to overdo it; they just let the music speak.
Now, sure, the production has that unmistakable '80s touch—heavy synths, big drums—but instead of feeling dated, it gives the album this retro charm. Listening to it now feels like stepping back in time, but not in a cringey way. More like, “Oh yeah, this was legit.”
One thing that surprised me? How well the mix of rock and Latin influences holds up. Tracks like “Nunca Mas” and “Dos Mil Años Luz” blend those styles so naturally, it’s easy to forget how tricky that balance can be. Plus, Amanda gets her own shoutout on the last track—what’s up with that? Feels random, but hey, quirky details make albums memorable.
So yeah, Tolerancia might not change your life, but it’s a solid listen if you dig vintage Mexican rock with a Latin twist. Honestly, listening to it made me wonder how many other hidden treasures from the ‘80s are out there waiting to be rediscovered. Maybe Lujjan never blew up internationally, but screw it—sometimes greatness doesn’t need the spotlight to matter.
Random thought: If they remastered this album today, would people lose their minds over it? Or would it stay chill, like that friend who’s cool but never brags about it? Food for thought.
