Quién dijo Ayer  (Audio CD) 
by Ricardo Arjona

Ricardo Arjona could have gone the standard route with Quién Dijo Ayer, and it still would have been a solid hits collection. But the Guatemalan singer and songwriter has rarely been about obvious pop choices. Quién Dijo Ayer is no different. Arjona has made the double-disc collection a sweet look back that still keeps firm footing in the present and in the future. To be sure, he includes the original versions of some of his biggest hits ("Mujeres," "Senora de Las Cuatro Decadas"). But Arjona recasts his trademark tunes with new arrangements, newly recorded vocals and guest stars, resulting in an exciting new project. "Te Conozco" finds a new sense of poignancy and "Historia de Taxi" is reborn as a shimmering salsa collaboration with Marc Anthony. Arjona also enlists Marta Sanchez, Eros Ramazzotti, and Sandro for fresh spins on old friends. The disc includes a trio of new tunes, including the terrific "Quién," that fit perfectly alongside the hits. Arjona's own voice, always appealingly emotive, adds extra layers of depth to every thoughtful lyric. --Joey Guerra