Guzman Displays Solid Showmanship

“People say I’m a total disaster, a bad weed,” sang Alejandra Guzman with a proud, mischievous gleam in her eyes Saturday at the House of Blues, the first of three engagements at the club.

The lyric, from the song “Mala Hierba,” symbolizes the indomitable spirit with which the Mexican performer has chosen to follow a career in rock ‘n’ roll, defying the tame behavior that is normally expected of female performers in Latin America.

And Guzman has certainly done the right thing. She was received by an adoring crowd, which celebrated all of her trademark stage antics, from her infamous onstage contortions to the risque frolicking with male dancers (disguised for the occasion as breathing, walking plants) and her numerous changes of extravagant wardrobe.

Whereas all these visuals would fall out of place if the musical side of the show were weak, Guzman has had the wisdom to recruit an excellent nine-piece band for a tight, muscular sound, clearly inspired by the best aspects of American rock and pop.

As a showwoman, though, Guzman is beyond reproach. From her glow-in-the-dark costumes to the sexy prancing on the darker corners of the stage, every one of her moves transpired her true vocation: being a rock ‘n’ roll diva.

* Alejandra Guzman plays tonight at 9 at the House of Blues, 8430 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. $35. (213) 848-5100.