Vanita Leo does not hold back on her second EP, Cumbiamante, a beautiful collection that romantically melts traditional Mexican Cumbia sounds with modern American themes and energy.
Since her last EP, HISTORIA DE UN AMOR, it is clear that Leo has grown and evolved not only lyrically and sonically, but also as a person. In her EP Cumbiamante, her voice and sounds come across confidently, sure of themselves, full and vibrant. Leo has also learned to use her voice more; she uses sweet harmonies and enchanting riffs that were not as recognizable in her previous works.
Cumbiamante is a romantic and meaningful fusion of classic Cumbia sounds with themes and the energy of American pop. The first track, “San Antonio,” is a heartbreaking love letter and homage to Leo’s hometown and what she has been able to find in it: love, comfort, dreams, peace, and herself. With sweet melodies and harmonies that make you feel like you’re ascending to an ethereal plane not on this Earth, “San Antonio” introduces Leo’s capabilities as a songwriter and singer.
Followed by a vibrant and energizing interlude, Cumbiamante takes a turn, and for the best. “Caballito” is a song no one can resist dancing to, it’s a lustful and vengeful track that packs quite the punch sonically. “solo tu bb” one of Leo’s bigger songs made it into her latest EP, it’s a romantic track that encapsulates what it’s like to be infatuated with someone and the unforeseen side effects of such profound emotions.
“Triste Sin Ti” has the most modern feel to it because of its genre-bending sounds. The intro is wistfully soft and makes a sharp turn sonically through the introduction of drums, guitars, and other instruments typically used in cumbias. It’s a plea for someone’s other half to come back. “Kais Mal” is an empowering anthem that makes a statement of being better off without someone and leaving the other person in ruins. While also reveling in the victory that is the other person’s loss. “Dos Extraños”, my personal favorite off this EP, narrates the experience of two people who were once profoundly in love. It speaks to the delicate nature of romantic relationships. As their affection for each other dwindles, both continue seeking familiar emotions and qualities in others.
The last track, “Primer Lugar”, continues with the heartbreak motif in the EP. It’s a reflective piece that conveys what it’s like to fall out of love and see the other person with someone new, and the hurt that comes with it, especially after having given so much love to one another. The song tries to cope with the idea that love may not be forever.
In each of these tracks, Leo perfectly conveys every emotion that the lyrics intend with her soulful and romantic vocals. Though many of these songs seem like they could be played at any Mexican party, when paying close attention to the lyrics, there is an alluring juxtaposition between the melody and the stories told through them. Vanita Leo is revolutionizing the modern Mexican American music scene by creating an effortless blend between traditional and modern sounds. If it hadn’t been obvious enough, I loved this EP and fell in love with Leo upon first listen. For anyone who is a fan of Selena or Kali Uchis, I’m sure Leo will have a spot among your favorite artists. Leo brings a breath of fresh air to modern Latin music, and I cannot wait to see her further evolve as an artist.
Photo Credits to: Anisha Patil
My name is Dylan Tellez-Flores. I am a Sophomore and I'm a Political Science and Philosophy major with a minor in Criminal Justice. My favorite album (at the moment) is LANA: SOS Deluxe by SZA.
