Rebels (CD - 2006)

Latin teen-pop superstars RBD took their time warming up to their first English-language venture, but the group's growing confidence and their tremendous popularity in the Latin pop market held them in good stead for 2006's REBELS. Like much teen and commercial urban and R&B, REBELS flirts with contemporary hip-hop production, throwing in bits of reggaeton and club music amid the catchy melodies.

But the distinguishing factor of REBELS is the mixture of Spanish and English lyrics. RBD have made their songs deliberately simple and learnable for listeners in both languages, especially on the choruses, which usually feature vocals from the entire ensemble (which encourages anyone within earshot to sing along). This simplifying impairs the energy of the band at points, but the greater exposure the bi-lingual REBELS will enjoy should make up for any shortcomings. minimize