AMG Review of Ultimate Reggaeton Collection

Evan C. Gutierrez
All Music Guide

Reggaeton has stepped in where ultra-commercialized hardcore hip-hop has fallen short -- to hold up a mirror, to tell the story of life on the street. While their American counterparts, the fathers and architects of the style, are rapping about their money and power, Spanish-language MCs spin tales true to dirt-poor experience. Perhaps this is a reflection of the shifting demographics in the U.S., as Latino communities have swollen to create the largest minority in the country. With the complicating factor of a language barrier, along with economic factors, reggaeton audiences may have replaced hip-hoppers as the new American underclass. Much like in the early years of the hip-hop movement, the release of enormous, multi-artist reggaeton compilations proves much more fiscally viable than individual albums. The advantages to the listener include a diverse look at the style, variety in production and lyrical content, and an introduction to a wide array of artists. Such is certainly the case with MacHete Music's Ultimate Reggaeton Collection. The contributors include some of the hardest hitting voices on the scene, like Wisin & Yandel, Daddy Yankee, Alexis y Fido, and more. With fantastic selections from all the artists involved, this compilation is aptly titled.