Héctor Lavoe’s ‘De Ti Depende’ Gets Vinyl Reissue As Part of Fania Records’ 60th Anniversary Series (ALBUM REVIEW)

Héctor Lavoe’s sophomore album, De Ti Depende, released in 1976, builds on the success of his debut La Voz and elevates his artistry, firmly establishing him as one of salsa’s most compelling voices. While La Voz introduced Lavoe as a solo artist with undeniable charisma, De Ti Depende demonstrates his growth as a bandleader, revealing his deep connection to salsa’s rhythms, stories, and spirit. Now, with Craft Latino’s vinyl reissue for their Fania Records 60th Anniversary series, audiences have an opportunity to experience this pivotal album, which remains both a cultural touchstone and a masterclass in musical storytelling.

The album kicks off with “Vamos a reír un poco,” a track that captures Lavoe’s unique ability to blend humor with musicality. His voice dances across the rhythm, inviting listeners to take life’s troubles with a grain of salt. The arrangement, driven by crisp brass lines and lively percussion, supports Lavoe’s laid-back, conversational style, establishing a playful energy that sets the tone for the album. In contrast, the title track, “De Ti Depende,” is an introspective piece that explores themes of personal accountability and resilience. Lavoe’s delivery is thoughtful and self-assured, conveying a message that life’s outcomes are ultimately in our hands. His connection with his band is apparent here; Lavoe’s role as bandleader shines as he guides his musicians through subtle rhythmic shifts, creating a seamless dialogue between his voice and the music.

“Periódico de ayer,” arguably the album’s most iconic song, demonstrates Lavoe’s gift for storytelling and emotional depth. Written by the celebrated Tite Curet Alonso, the song reflects on a love that has lost its meaning, likening it to yesterday’s newspaper—discarded and forgotten. Lavoe’s voice carries a biting intensity, his tone filled with bitterness and resignation. The track’s haunting melody lingers long after it ends, a testament to Lavoe’s ability to leave an indelible mark on listeners through his voice and interpretation. “Hacha y machete” is a bold, rhythm-heavy track that showcases Lavoe’s range and versatility. Here, he leans into a more assertive, percussive style, with his voice taking on a raw edge that reflects the lyrics’ intensity. The title, which translates to “Axe and Machete,” is echoed in Lavoe’s fierce vocal performance as he slices through the music with precision and power. This track serves as a reminder of Lavoe’s fearlessness as both a vocalist and bandleader, unafraid to push the boundaries of salsa.

The album’s second half, featuring tracks like “Tanto como ayer” and “Felices horas,” offers a softer side of Lavoe, showcasing his ability to evoke nostalgia and romance. “Tanto como ayer” finds him reflecting on a love that endures despite life’s challenges, while “Felices horas” channels a wistful reminiscence for cherished memories. Lavoe’s vocal tenderness in these songs provides a beautiful counterpoint to the album’s more intense moments, revealing the full emotional spectrum of his artistry. The closing track, “Mentira,” is a fitting conclusion to the album, with Lavoe’s vocals carrying a palpable sense of betrayal and vulnerability. Singing about deception, he manages to blend heartbreak with defiance, leaving listeners with a sense of his emotional resilience.

De Ti Depende is a defining moment in Héctor Lavoe’s career, solidifying his status as a legend in salsa and Latin music. While La Voz introduced his undeniable talent, De Ti Depende delves deeper, capturing the complexities of Lavoe’s personality and musical vision. This album isn’t just an essential part of salsa’s golden era—it’s a timeless work that continues to resonate, bridging the past and present with the power of Lavoe’s voice and artistry.