Lyrics are what make the group Motivo (formerly known as 180). Blending Latin American rhythms and instrumentation with Christian lyrics is an idea that will have wide appeal. The group has been together for over seven years and this is their first CD.
Motivo, with thirteen tracks, contains an elegant blend of ballads ("Angel"), Latin American rhythm ("180") and songs with Spanish lyrics ("Brand New Start.") Jorge Valdez is lead vocalist with Lily Valdez, Francisco Cuevas, and Luis Borrayo doing background vocals. The mature tone of "Motivo" shows the group has worked together for a long time and is at ease with the music.
"Strength" is a prime example of the mixture of rhythm and lyrics Motivo can do. "My strength is in your hands, I may fall from the weight of the world but I get up because I can." Or, in the ballad, "Angel," the lyrics say, "I'm so glad just like in the movies when someone saves the movie star, you must be the angel in my life." That would make guardian angels everywhere just plain blush. "180", which I would guess may be the signature song of Motivo, has "searching high, searching low, where it ends no one knows. His light is there, just open your heart." The message about God is brought to the listener with good guitar and Latin American accent.
This reviewer prefers to hear the lyrics of the songs, so will mention that the mix for "Fool For Your Love" and "That Way" allows the drum to challenge the vocalist for the listener's attention. Not necessary. The drum is comfortably in place in the rest of the selections on this CD. All in all, "Contemplate" says it, "He is the answer now and forever" and that is the message on "Motivo."
3 tocks
