What makes Bestial by Barrabás notable?

The album is significant for its fusion of rock with Latin elements, contributing to the rise of Latin rock in the early '80s. It received considerable airplay in Spanish-speaking countries and helped solidify Barrabás' reputation as pioneers within this genre, influencing subsequent bands exploring similar fusions. When 'Bestial' was released in 1982, Barrabás was already established in the music scene following their successful earlier albums like 'Barrabás' (1971). This album marked a continuation of their experimental approach, showcasing a mix of rock and Afro-Cuban influences as they sought to broaden their appeal beyond Spain.

How many songs are on Bestial?

Bestial has 9 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Bestial

Barrabás · 1982

42 min · 9 tracks · rock music

An eclectic blend of rock rhythms infused with Latin grooves and vibrant brass arrangements that invites listeners to dance.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Lion (Don’t Kill the Lion) — This track opens the album with an infectious groove that encapsulates Barrabás' signature sound, blending rock energy with an engaging narrative about conservation.
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Viva Maria — A standout track that combines catchy hooks with vibrant instrumentation, celebrating life and freedom, representing the band's ability to craft anthemic choruses.
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(Be My) Rebel — This song showcases a bold declaration of individuality and defiance, featuring dynamic rhythms and passionate vocals that resonate with the album's overarching themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album effectively blends rock with Latin influences, though its pacing and cohesion vary across tracks.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong brass section in 'The Lion (Don’t Kill the Lion)', setting a vibrant tone that persists throughout.
Tracks frequently shift between rock rhythms and Latin grooves, with several songs featuring call-and-response vocal patterns.
The final track, 'Big Brother', incorporates a slower tempo and more reflective lyrics, creating a contrast to the high-energy earlier tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

(Be My) Rebel

The bridge shifts from a plea for acceptance into a declaration of independence, emphasizing the need to embrace one's true self without fear.

This pivot not only amplifies the emotional intensity but also transforms the song's narrative arc from vulnerability to empowerment.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 The Lion (Don’t Kill the Lion) 6:21
2 Lover of the Night 4:10
3 Viva Maria 5:51
4 Dolores 5:03
5 (Be My) Rebel 6:26
6 Love & Hate 4:06
7 So Long 2:54
8 Leather Queen 3:54
9 Big Brother 4:08

What to play next

Listen next

Prohibido

1983

Go back to

Piel de Barrabás

1981

Full Barrabás discography Artists like Barrabás

rock music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata