Review of Barbara Padilla's self-titled album

Barbara Padilla, a self-titled album, is a joy for opera lovers.

Padilla became recognized by a broad audience on America’s Got Talent in 2009. Padilla was raised in Guadalajara, Mexico.

The album showcases Padilla as a soloist. The album is undeniably commercial. It is dreamy and romantic, and some of the songs are breathtaking and subtle. It is a great selection of songs, including arias, classical compositions, and pop songs. Padilla is joined by the acclaimed London Symphony Orchestra. The lush accompaniment includes wind chimes, piano, and strings. Songs on the album are in Italian, Spanish, and English.

The first song, “Gira Con Me Questa Notte,” is conversational. It is a story of a young woman asking to go for a walk at night. A fine way to begin an album, the first song is never precious or wishing for something that is unattainable. From long and far, her heart is crying out. “Fuerte” has Spanish influences, and includes guitar and light percussion. Her dream of everyday isn’t ethereal, but wistful. When she repeats, “Fuerte,” her voice sails. “Tu Sei” begins with strings and is well-executed.

Some of the songs on the album are songs that we know. “A Time For Us (Un Giorno Per Noi)” from Romeo & Juliet is sung in a medley from “Addio Del Passato From La Traviata.” It is appropriately haunting and triumphant, and sounds particularly good in Italian. Padilla breaks through in English at the end of the song, and it is transcendent. The next track, “You Were Made For Me,” is only song on the album completely in English. Padilla sings, “Time stops. I hear you calling me.”“Gabriel’s Oboe (Nella Fantasia) From the Mission” is another dreamy ballad.

The album ends with “Intermezzo (Attesa) from Cavalleria Rusticana.” Her voice has plenty of texture when the lyrics begin, and the crescendo at the end is uplifting.

The album, Barbara Padilla, is meant to be appreciated by classical music fans and a mainstream audience. The Capitol Studios in LA and Abbey Road Studios in London are mentioned in the album credits.