Search - Perla Batalla :: Mestiza

Simply entrancing performances of some beautiful songs

Kurt Howard | Seattle, WA USA | 11/20/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This woman has one of those voices that can literally give you chills. I stumbled over this CD almost by accident, and was sold by the sound-sample of 'Camino a Santiago' As an admitted refugee of the late 60's - I identify a strong resemblance to both Laura Nyro and Linda Ronstadt in Perla's vocal treatments - (which is NO crime ;-}) And her songs (co-written with guitarist/partner David Batteau) jump several boundaries, and give this offering a unique flavor - These are thoughtfully composed songs, written with apparent genuine passion, experience and wisdom. Switching between English and Spanish lyrics is usually very effective both aurally and emotionally. my favorites: Camino a Santiago, Ramona, Cinema of Tears, IberiaBuy this album. You won't regret it.thanks for reading."

Beautiful Voice

Kurt Howard | 01/31/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have been a fan of Perla Batalla's since she came to Seattle to play at the Tractor Tavern in 1999. Her performance was simply mesmerizing. As she sang her songs I was able to completely tune out everything and everyone but her and her music. I was so moved by the genuine emotion in her voice. Perla creates an intimacy and sense of familiarity when she performs that makes it so easy to let down your guard and just let the truth of her music rush into your heart. I listen to Mestiza when I want to remember that special concert. Thank you Perla!"

Sweet Message, Sweeter Messenger

Dan Danner | Encinitas, CA USA | 07/22/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I went to see Perla in concert as a guest of the assistant director of the Center for the Performing Arts in Escondido, California. Not knowing what to expect, I went away on a mission to find her music -- entranced not only by the amazing voice, but the gentle spirit Perla posesses. Months of scouring record stores revealed nothing...till I browsed Amazon and found Mestiza. This is music that can catch you and hold you. Months later (and innumerable plays later) , Mestiza continues to summon beautiful emotion and imagery. This is a keeper. Just last week, I saw Perla in concert again and was taken by the light in her eyes when she smiles onstage. I had the opportunity to meet her and am touched at meeting such a gentle and beautiful spirit. Now I see how fully she reveals herself in this album. I'm currently particularly touched by "Holy Roses." The song speaks to Perla's believing she had all the best life could offer, touring and travelling the world with such talented people, only to discover that nothing could begin to compare to becoming a mother to a lovely little girl. My God, how she shone when she sang this song! There's something expressed in Mestiza I've seen women relate with powerfully -- something which also causes me as a man to celebrate how wonderful it is that such women grace this life.To steal a line from "Holy Roses," Perla, "you magnify MY world!""