Album Review: Rodando by Monchy & Capricho – A Merengue Ride You Won’t Forget
If you're a fan of that infectious Latin groove, Rodando by Monchy & Capricho is the kind of album that’ll have your feet tapping before you even realize it. Straight outta the Dominican Republic and released under Escala Records, this merengue gem has all the right vibes for both dance floor domination and chill backyard hangs. Let’s dive into a couple tracks that really stuck with me.
First up, “Recuerdas.” Man, this one hits different. It’s got that nostalgic feel, like when you’re scrolling through old photos and suddenly remember someone you haven’t thought about in years. The beat is smooth but layered with these emotional accordion riffs—classic merengue stuff—that just pull at your heartstrings. And Monchy? His voice carries so much sincerity here; it feels personal, like he’s telling your story. I found myself replaying this track over and over because it’s catchy as heck yet somehow still feels intimate.
Then there’s the title track, “Rodando.” If “Recuerdas” is the soulful slow burn, this one’s the wild party starter. From the first horn blast, it grabs you by the shoulders and says, “Hey, we’re moving now!” The rhythm is relentless, perfect for spinning around until you’re dizzy or busting out those moves you swore you’d never show anyone. What makes it memorable though is how effortlessly fun it feels. Like, yeah, life can be messy, but hey, let’s roll with it (pun totally intended). That chorus? Stuck in my head for days.
The rest of the album follows suit—upbeat anthems mixed with heartfelt ballads, all wrapped up in that signature Dominican flair. Honestly, listening to Rodando feels like hanging out with old friends who know exactly how to lift your spirits. Sure, some tracks blend together after a while, but isn’t that kinda the beauty of merengue? It’s not trying too hard; it just is.
So, final thoughts? This album reminds me why merengue will always hold a special place in the world of music. It’s raw, real, and ridiculously fun. Oh, and here’s something random—I bet if aliens ever visited Earth and heard this album, they’d drop whatever space tech they were working on and start dancing. Seriously. Try listening without moving. I dare ya.
