Record Label:
Smilin' Castle
The members of Del Castillo wrote most of the songs on this self-titled album together in the space of one week. Maybe that’s why they have a unity and strength that makes the band’s fourth release their best yet. A balanced mix of ballads and higher-intensity tunes sung in English and Spanish,
Del Castillo conveys a new level of nuanced fluidity, with a greater maturity in Alex Ruiz’s vocals and lyrics, particularly on the sweet love song “Little Angel.” Of course, guitarists Rick and Mark Del Castillo are never less than impeccable. But it takes more than skill to pull off what they do; it takes soulfulness, and you can hear it clearly on songs like “Castles,” an album highlight.
