ALBUM REVIEW: BAD BUNNY NAVIGATES THROUGH FAME AND IDENTITY IN ' NADIE SABE LO QUE VA A PASAR MANANA'

BY: JESSE ZAPATERO

Bad Bunny has just released his latest album, "Nadie sabe lo que va a pasar mañana," and it's a compelling return to his latin rap roots. This LP, his fifth solo studio album, might not quite attain the level of magic and sophistication found in some of his earlier work, but it unmistakably maintains his signature attitude that have endeared him to fans worldwide.

Seven years ago, Bad Bunny burst onto the music scene as an audacious newcomer with his distinct style, complete with labyrinthine graphics on his scalp and bright short-shorts. With "Nadie sabe lo que va pasar mañana," he seems to be revisiting those early days, bringing back the carefree, reckless spirit that initially captivated audiences.

The album's standout moments come when Bad Bunny is deliberately provocative or playfully irreverent. Tracks like "Baticano" and "Fina" are packed with smutty wisecracks that elicit genuine laughter. "Thunder y Lightning" presents a gritty drill performance, demonstrating his lyrical prowess and referencing obscure Puerto Rican sports figures. He even takes a playful jab at his former creative partner, J Balvin.

However, not every track on the album reaches these entertaining heights. Some songs lack the depth and complexity that were hallmarks of his earlier work, veering towards unimaginative flexing. It's evident that Bad Bunny recognizes this, acknowledging it in his lyrics. Yet, the album does feel somewhat bloated and overlong, making it a bit of a challenging listen at times.

Nevertheless, this project has its moments of brilliance. Tracks like "Monaco" and "Vou 787" create a vivid picture of opulence, featuring sumptuous samples that contribute to an aura of extravagance. The album's production remains consistently impressive, highlighting Bad Bunny's skill in crafting inventive and captivating music.

"Nadie sabe lo que va a pasar mañana" shows us Bad Bunny's ability to retain his distinctive style while grappling with the complexities of fame. It's a darkly reflective and occasionally paranoid exploration of his experience as a celebrity, set against a backdrop of rich orchestral sounds and cleverly sampled beats. While the album could benefit from some trimming to enhance its overall cohesiveness, it's clear that Bad Bunny continues to push boundaries in the Latin music.