It’s not often that tribute albums come with the full endorsement of the tributee, but that’s the case with
Cristian Castro’s
Viva el Príncipe, as it comes with the approval of
José José. “The Prince of Song” makes two appearances on
Castro’s tribute, singing on the opening “Lo Pasado Pasado” and reciting the closing “Poema al Cantante.” His spirit fills the rest of the album, thanks in part to production from longtime
José José associate
Rafael Pérez Botija, but
Castro is fully responsible for the sense of tradition as he delivers this material with respect. That doesn’t keep him from pouring his heart into the songs, and since mimicry isn’t an issue in the least,
Viva el Príncipe winds up a tribute that will please fans of either artist. ~ David Jeffries