In 1997, respected Latin singer Elkin Marin, born in Columbia but residing in the Philippines after performing and recording in many places around the world, released Elkin Marin, a most-accomplished, enjoyable set, if a bit ballad-heavy.

Mostly, the music of Elkin Marin is pop in... [+] Expand

In 1997, respected Latin singer Elkin Marin, born in Columbia but residing in the Philippines after performing and recording in many places around the world, released Elkin Marin, a most-accomplished, enjoyable set, if a bit ballad-heavy.

Mostly, the music of Elkin Marin is pop in nature and given a Latin overtone by Marin. The use of congas and other percussion also highlights the Latin influence. Spanish and English are used interchangeably throughout-a verse may be sung in Spanish, for example, and the chorus in English.

Of the album's ten songs, eight are ballads, all of which were composed by Marin. The two uptempo songs were composed by others. Elkin Marin opens with the lovely ballad, "By Your Door," featuring a tantalizing melody sung passionately by Marin. Throughout the album, the exquisitely used backing vocals, as well as the fine instrumental accompaniment, contribute much to the album's elegant sound.

Other standout tracks include, "Ninos del Mundo" (Children of the World), a touching, poignant song Marin composed for his then-pregnant wife Victoria Marin; the tender "Say It to Me with Your Kisses" and the wonderfully melodic "My Chiquita" (slang: My Little Girl").

The uptempo "Amalaya" was composed by Columbian Isaac Villanueva though Marin arranged this version. "Amalaya" is a cumbia, a Latin style of music that originated in Columbia, characterized by a loping beat. A rap heard midway through the song reveals Marin's cosmopolitan outlook.

"Amalaya" gained much radio airplay and a video featuring Marin aired on MTV Asia. ~ David Gonzales, All Music Guide [-] Collapse

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