La Llave De Mi Corazon  (Audio CD) 
by Juan Luis Guerra

La Llave De Mi Corazon finds tropical music troubadour Juan Luis Guerra returning to the secular sounds that have made him an enduring, endearing performer. His last disc, 2004's Para Ti, was a cautiously received--if still joyous--collection of spiritual tunes. La Llave De Mi Corazon centers on romance and love, themes that better suit Guerra's blend of salsa, merengue and other assorted tropical rhythms. The cutesy title track is featured in English and in Spanish, though it's doubtful Guerra will engage in any serious crossover work anytime soon. Better is "Something Good," a silky, simmering duet with smoky-voiced Chiara Civello. Guerra's own rich, expressive delivery is always a treat. He's emotive without oversinging, particularly during the lilting "A La Vera" and "Solo Tengo Ojos Para Ti." Standout "Si Tu No Bailas Conmigo" is a simple, gorgeous ode to amor that soars on glittering imagery and a gently shuffling beat. "If you don't dance with me, I prefer not to dance," Guerra confesses to a lover. It's an irresistible invitation. --Joey Guerra