Enrique Iglesias, Enrique
2.5 stars out of four

Like Latin pop peers Ricky Martin and Marc Anthony, Enrique Iglesias takes few risks in crafting glib, radio-aimed pop for his English-language debut. After earning global fame from three multi-platinum Spanish albums, Iglesias is following dad Julio's trajectory in targeting the U.S. market with immaculately produced, sentimental, midtempo tunes and occasional brand-name assists. In this case, the chief lure is a glorious pairing with Whitney Houston, his first recorded duet. Penned by Diane Warren and produced by David Foster, Could I Have This Kiss Forever may Martinize the singer's career, though he already is enjoying crossover attention, thanks to Wild Wild West soundtrack standout Bailamos. Iglesias teams with that hit's production team, the Groove Brothers, on the equally infectious Rhythm Divine, one of several deeply romantic tracks that reveal the Iglesias gene for seductive crooning. Against a smooth blend of modern pop and Latin beats, he invigorates the frothiest lyrics with sincerity, warmth and a vocal richness absent in Ricky's ditties.