It makes sense that New York-based Pacha Massive made its musical mark by mixing the genres of a city that's a true global center. The then-duo of Dominican-born Ramon Nova and Colombian cohort Maya Martinez debuted to critical acclaim with All Good Things, introducing the world to their irresistible, bilingual blend of dub, electronica and Latin rhythms. The sophomore effort, If You Want It, follows in the same sonic blueprint—only this time without Martinez. Nova calls upon a number of female vocalists to lend their talents to his arrangements. As much of the lyrics of If You Want It center on the interplay of the sexes, the vocals tend toward the smooth and sultry, which leaves listeners wondering where more dynamism would lead.
Pacha Massive's new offerings steadily ride along relaxed vibes that are ultimately danceable. Dub is most pronounced on "Just Want to See Ya," on which Nova alternates among Spanish, English and Spanglish. The most identifiably Latin-influenced song, "For a While," immediately commands the hips to sway. Not resorting to fillers, the album actually gains momentum in its final songs.
Though Martinez's absence is noticeable, enough tunes from If You Want It maintain the feel Pacha Massive fans expect.
