While Latin stars now regularly dabble in Afrobeats as a pop music cheat code, Beéle was one of a rare few Spanish-language artists to commit to exploring that sound. With an ear for global polyrhythms and a penchant for romantic lyricism, the Colombian singer became reliably known for his singles in a distinct style that commingled with concurrent tropical music trends. On BORONDO, his long-awaited debut album, he shares an even broader sonic vision that both builds on that reputation and expands upon it. Expected expressions of his West African influences—“mad koknut” and “i miss you”—arrive alongside less anticipated artistic explorations like the warbling, ambient post-rock of “una vez al mes” and the surreally swirling “hotel east.” His knack for the laidback comes through on tracks like “si te pillara” and “top diesel,” but he’s experienced enough now to change it up for “una curita por favor” or the dance-floor-primed “no tiene sentido.” Topically, he’s as amorous as ever on the somewhat idiosyncratic “sobelove” and perhaps at his most sensitive on the descriptive “frente al mar.” Throughout BORONDO, Beéle reinforces his worldwide connections, linking with hitmaking Nigerian producer Thisizlondon for “si mañana me muero” and salsa superstar Marc Anthony for “Dios me oyó.” Esteemed Mexican singer Carla Morrison proves an ideal duet partner on “arena,” yet some of the most gratifying collaborations here are wholly homegrown ones, with Nanpa Básico sharing his heartache on “hasta aquí llegué” and no less than Ovy On the Drums co-headlining the balmy yet energetic “mi refe.”