Review: Camila Cabello - La Buena Vida

While I did not review it, Camila Cabello's Don't Go Yet is one of my favorite songs from the Americas this year. Now, in a recent tiny desk concert at NPR Music, Cabello has performed another song from her upcoming album Familia. This song, La Buena Vida, is now getting a review here.

Lyrically, the song is about a relationship falling apart as Cabello's partner is not spending enough time together, instead, he is working. This is an issue I have seen in a lot of couples, so it certainly could work.

However, the real leading element of the song is the strongly Latin arrangement. With strong brass elements alongside the violins in cohesion. It is very ambitious, pulling every element together in cohesion. The violin twirls at the end of the chorus are golden, supported by the Spanish clapping percussion.

Trumpets are all over the place, guiding the ambitious drama, along while guiding the energy. Strummed guitars also assist, deepening the production. Somehow, all these elements come together in cohesion for a solid piece of Latin pop.

Cabello's performance is not perfect, but there are several reasons for this. This is a live performance, and she had a cold during the recording. Nonetheless, I can feel how the song would sound in full. The high notes are still well-performed and with a sense of euphoric sorrow.

However, the song's greatest element occurs midway through, when the violin players start singing together as a choir, while Cabello ad-libs. It is very dramatic and strong, just as intended.

With a strong melody, leading to the rapid-fire chorus, in hand, La Buena Vida sounds like it could be the next big hit from Cabello, and one totally deserved. If this and Don't Go Yet is how Familia will sound, I am looking forward to it.

Rating: 8.5/10

Image Source: Sonica