Album Review: Anitta’s ‘Kisses’ Is An Audiovisual Feast

Mike Nied | April 8, 2019 5:11 pm
Anitta & Becky G's 'Banana' Video
Two Latin-pop icons join forces for the cheekiest music video of 2019.

Anitta always delivers. And the Brazilian pop star’s audiovisual album Kisses is no exception. In fact, the 10-track collection is her most impressive feat to date. The tantalizing cover sent our wigs into orbit, and the rest is just as iconic. The 26-year-old sings in Portuguese, Spanish and English — showcasing a different side of her personality in each banger. Not only that, but each song has a (sizzling) video. Given her track record for awe-inspiring visual projects like last year’s Solo, it should come as no surprise that they are all winners.

We do have some favorites, however. The Becky G-assisted “Banana” emerges as an instant highlight. Anticipation has been high for the duet since the “Mala Mia” collaborators first teased it. Vibrant and playful, the rip-roaring banger boasts a sing-along chorus and a video that is a literal work of art. With more than 7.5 million views in its first four days, it’s shaping up to be the album’s breakout hit.

The same could be said for streaming sensation “Poquito.” The trap-inspired, mid-tempo track has already amassed more than 1.8 million streams. On it, the “RIP” siren sings about being irresistible to a partner. “Poquito, it only takes a little bit. Just poquito, to get you hooked on all of this,” she coos. Featuring a guest verse from Rae Sremmurd rapper Swae Lee, it could introduce Anitta to a whole new audience. The slinky highlight pairs well with the Chris Marshall-assisted “Tu Y To.” That video features beachside views and plenty of sultry stares.

The seduction continues on “Rosa.” This emerges as a personal favorite with Anitta joining Prince Royce for a passionate fling. The compelling video brings the relationship to life. In it, they come together for a brief interlude amidst a sea of flowers. Later the New York-native watches as his lover serves serious looks in a room overflowing with red roses. Things get a little flirtier on the Alesso-assisted “Get To Know Me.” Over mellow production, the Brazilian goddess challenges a potential fling to earn her attention.

Empowering album opener “Atención” also demands attention. According to a translation on Billboard, it celebrates women. “This Anitta is full of attitude. She’s independent and likes to exalt other women,” the translation reads. “She preoccupies herself with social causes and believes that her vanity and beauty are in her attitude and way of being.” Those themes come across in the inclusive video, which encourages women to perform breast examinations. We stan a humanitarian legend!

If you’re in the mood for a club-ready banger, look no further than “Juego” or “Sin Miedo.” The latter features one of the album’s most danceable productions and guest appearances from Dj Luian and Mambo Kingz. Its video is a wild feast for the eyes. Rebellious and fun, the twists and turns keep you entertained from start to finish. The “Onda Diferente” visual is equally eye-popping. In it, Anitta and collaborator Ludmilla show out in skin-tight bodysuits.

That brings us to the album closer, “Você Mentiu.” Featuring vocals from Brazilian legend Caetano Veloso, the gentle offering is something of a sonic outlier. However, it effectively brings Kisses to a conclusion. And the accompanying video, a black-and-white interlude, works just as well. Lush with potential hits and arresting visuals, Anitta’s ambitious release is a winner from beginning to end. With any luck, it will put the superstar one step closer to global domination. Give the collection a spin below and let us know what you think.

Score: 4/5

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