El diablito cover

El diablito

Caifanes · 1990

46 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

An atmospheric blend of gothic rock and alternative melodies, characterized by haunting vocals and intricate guitar work.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    La célula que explota — This track exemplifies the band's signature sound with its driving rhythm and layered instrumentation, making it a fan favorite that showcases their lyrical depth.
  • →
    Detrás de ti — The opening track sets a haunting tone for the album, featuring poignant lyrics that explore themes of longing and loss within an atmospheric musical landscape.
  • →
    Amárrate a una escoba y vuela lejos — This song stands out with its playful yet introspective lyrics, blending whimsical imagery with the band's darker sonic elements, emblematic of their unique style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, with distinct atmospheric qualities that define its sound.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a more rhythmic shift with its upbeat tempo.
  • Several songs feature layered guitar textures that create a dense atmospheric sound, particularly in 'La célula que explota' and 'El negro cósmico'.
  • The album closes with a track that features a gradual fade-out, leaving an unresolved feeling that invites further listening.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • haunting melodies for introspection
  • short bursts of emotional depth
  • atmospheric soundscapes for solitude
  • cathartic moments of reflection

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, energetic tracks
  • want straightforward structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1990, El diablito was Caifanes' second studio album, following their self-titled debut. The band was solidifying its presence in the Latin American rock scene, transitioning from underground success to mainstream recognition.
Stylistic neighbors
Los Bukis· Héroes del Silencio· Soda Stereo

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Detrás de ti 3:38
  • 2 Antes de que nos olviden 4:49
  • 3 La vida no es eterna 3:59
  • 4 De noche todos los gatos son pardos 4:19
  • 5 Sombras en tiempos perdidos 5:54
  • 6 El negro cósmico 3:47
  • 7 La célula que explota 3:38
  • 8 Aquí no pasa nada 4:42
  • 9 Los dioses ocultos 4:44
  • 10 El elefante 3:03
  • 11 Amárrate a una escoba y vuela lejos 3:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata