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DC Reviews: David Lee Garza Presents… ~ Just Friends

DavidLeeGarza.JustFriendsRecently, David Lee Garza added a new vocalist to what is now called DLG U–the “university” which has given the Tejano music industry some of the best vocalists in all of Latin music. Juaquin Cura is a young gun that is already hitting it out of the park in live performances. DLG has put him on his new CD, Just Friends, but he has also invited an all-star line-up to show-off their chops al estilo de DLG and Los Musicales–all rancheras that will keep one on the dance floor.

I must admit, I had to re-play the first track a few times before listening to the rest of the production. Adalberto Gallegos leads off with the Fabulosos Cuatro classic, No Me Trates Asi, and his distinctive vocals just made me click “replay” several times. The musical styling is puro Musicales and sets the foundation for the rest of the production.

The iron-throated Jessy Serrata is up next with Amorcito del Alma, while Joe Posada hits a home-run with Eres Todo Mi Ser, which also includes a smooth solo from the saxmaster. El Hermano Farias–David Farias–gives us the tried and true, Ya Pa’ Que, which I hadn’t heard since Carlos Guzman recorded it in ’82. The next student of DLG U, Joaquin Cura, also gives it a go with Ella Sabe, with Los Musicales’ signature sound. Cura has a lot of potential to be “the” new voice in the industry.

Recently, producer Bob Gallarza discovered a new vocalist who gained a lot of radio play with an old classic, Amorcito Corazon. On the DLG CD, Gabriel Olvera pumps out another standard, Mi Cariñito. If you’re a Pedro Infante fan, then you’ll enjoy this one. La Voz de Oro, David Marez, also gets a turn with Me Bastas, which matches his style more than DLG’s, but the acordeon and the faint bajo sexto in the background keeps the track smooth and danceable.

DLG has a bit of a reunion with one of his graduates, Marcos Orozco. Orozco belts out Soy Del Amor Un Sonador. And El Borrado de Eagle Pass, Gary Hobbs, shows some first class crooning with the classic, La Barca. And if all of these vocalists weren’t enough, the world-famous Jon Ramirez (in the morning) from KXTN in San Antonio debuts on The Radio Guy. I was quite impressed with his vocals on this ranchera, actually, and it looks like he has some intro music for his radio show. Eddie Perez’s Tu Tienes La Culpa is a good addition to the CD–a little different from his West Side Horns music, but definitely a great delivery.

Of course, DLG cannot go wrong by adding an acordeon polka instrumental, Tony’s Favorites, which showcases his musicians, not to mention his acordeon.

There is no doubt that this is quite the collection of music with some of the best Tejano crooners in the business. And there’s no doubt DLG will be asked, “why not this guy, or this female vocalist?” So, let’s push him for a volume 2. For now, I’m back to over-playing this production during my drives around town, especially Track #1.

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DC Reviews ~ Los Palominos - Siente El Amor

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Los Palominos are back with a new production on Houston's Urbana Records, Siente El Amor. Produced by La Mafia founder Armando Lichtenberger, this newest release from the Arriola brothers of Uvalde, TX is strong and puro Palominos.

The formula for Los Palominos has not changed much since their founding--strong vocal harmonies, some great melodies on the acordeon, and an excellent rhythm section.

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Re-posting to celebrate "Siente El Amor"'s reaching #7 on the Billboard charts! Congrats!

DC Reviews ~ The Mavericks – In Time

Those who follow me on Facebook know I have The Mavericks on heavy rotation with my YouTube reposts, so, it is known that the anticipation of the arrival of The Mavericks’ In Time was wearing me out. A quick trip to Target at 9AM this morning and there it was! Already on replay #5, I can honestly say that I don’t foresee any future boredom–it is that good!

Back in July, I reviewed their extended play CD, so we know how good that one was and the five tracks from the EP are included on In Time, but the nine newer tracks are just as amazing. Kudos to Valory Music Company for supporting The Mavericks–good choice!

One track that has been the band’s 2nd song at concerts lately is the rockabilly-tinged Lies, which with some excellent guitars and a strong, soaring beat, will be a favorite. Lead vocalist Raul Malo wastes no time in showing off his range in the ballad In Another’s Arms. It’s haunting drum beats and piano are complimented by a break that highlights a beautiful string arrangement. Fall Apart is a fun and danceable break-up song, if you can believe that. The soaring chorus, horn section, and acordeon solo from San Antonio’s Michael Guerra will keep you humming–even after the first five listens.

All Over Again offers a recognizable Mavericks rhythm, but now with a very noticeable acordeon. There’s no doubt, as the LA Times keeps pointing out, that the Cuban crooner and the band cross genres and even add a dash of Tex-Mex. Malo belts out the ballad, Please Heart Forgive Me, in fine fashion, but As Long As There’s Loving Tonight and Dance In The Moonlight will rev you right back up.

And as the LA Times points out, the 8-minute epic that is (Call Me) When You Get to Heaven is powerful and displays all of the musicians talents, but it is the background vocals of the McCrary Sisters which adds a level of gospel to the tune that is much appreciated. As the tune ends, and even though it is lengthy, you still want more.

One of the tunes off of the EP is re-done in Español, Ven Hacia Mi (Come Unto Me). The tune just reminds me of how Malo pokes fun at some of the folks who are mesmerized by his Spanish-language songs. “I don’t know what he’s saying, but it sounds so romantic.” Thankfully, this tune delivers the right message.

The reunion was a long time in coming, but In Time is definitely a celebration of 20 years of flawless music.  One test of recorded material is a bands ability to reproduce it live. I’ve seen Raul, Eddie, Paul, Roberto, Jerry Dale, Michael, Elio and the various horn players perform some of these tunes live and they definitely deliver just as good live than in the studio. Now it’s your turn to deliver for them and purchase this CD!

Thoughts on Viernes…12142012

 

Dem Women Holiday Party–A Blast!

So, I, along with my sisters, attended the Holiday Party put on by the local Democratic Women’s clubs and, as always, it was a blast. Held at Planned Parenthood, the highlight for me was listening to two great speeches from SD-6 candidates Sylvia Garcia and Carol Alvarado. Each, in their own way, has been at the front lines fending off the Republican War on Women, so, the fact that there are two Latinas with a strong record of supporting a Woman’s right to choose in the running to represent a predominantly Latino seat is a pretty exciting thing.

Good music by Carli Mosier and the band; great food and desserts; and some amazing libations were the icing on the cake. And yes, there was cake!

Grier Rewarded…

But for what? Should Houston ISD be giving money out like it’s going out of style? One thing is rebuilding high schools for kids–that’s an investment in the future. But a $115K salary bonus, part of it for being “satisfactory”? His tenure wasn’t even up until 2014! Anyway, my good friend Juliet Stipeche voted against it and she is to be commended for taking a stand. Unfortunately, my own trustee voted for the giveaway. Anyone ready to run against him?

Musica Break – Los Texmaniacs w/ Cesar Rosas of Los Lobos

DCs Election Day Notes

10:30 AM

Yes, there are lines most everywhere. Don’t leave! Vote! And know your rights!

 

7:30AM Report

Mark Twain is Still A Polling Location

Before 7AM, I received an e-mail informing me that the Mark Twain Elementary School polling location had signs telling folks to vote elsewhere. DON’T! The Ann Johnson Campaign was on the spot and called the County to confirm that if you vote at Mark Twain, vote at Mark Twain.

It’s a sad tactic, but that is the world in which we live. Fight back by voting! And if you vote at Mark Twain, VOTE ANN JOHNSON for HD-134.

Rides to the Polls in HD-150 (Spring/Klein/Tomball)

If you’re on the northern edges of Harris County, chances are you want to rid yourself of Riddle and Vote Brad Neal for HD-150. Well, just saw this note from my friend and Neal campaign chief Ashley:

If you live in the Spring/Klein/Tomball area and need a ride to the polls let us know! We have drivers willing to take you starting around 8:30. Send me a message her or email me at ashley@votebradneal.com.

Keep an eye on DosCentavos. If you have any reports, email us from the Contact Page.

UHD Students Get Ready to Walk to Vote - Nov. 1

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From UH-Downtown's Student Government President Ivan Sanchez:

Houston, TX - In response to student voter turn-out at an all time low, students of the University of Houston-Downtown resolve to empower themselves to get out and vote. UH-D students vow to unite to play a critical role in the November elections as we pledge to walk to vote on November 1st. UH-D students are not your typical student, we are the parents, we are the part time/full time working professionals that go the extra mile to get our education - and we will lead by example our community in demonstrating our philosophy of being politically active.

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14thCOA-3: Barbara Gardner Deserves Your Vote

There’s no doubt that the 14th Court of Appeals is in dire need of balance and fairness, whether it’s by political party or ideology. Above all, Place 3 of the 14th Court needs a Justice with experience and temperament to ensure fairness for all. Barbara Gardner has proven herself as an attorney and would serve Texans well on this bench.

Click on the image below to read more on Gardner, as well as her opponent.

Houston - 33rd Annual Festival Chicano in October

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That's right! The best three-day Tejano/Chicano music fest in Houston, the 33rd Festival Chicano, is back on October 4, 5, and 6 at Miller Outdoor Theatre. Thanks to Daniel Bustamante, the 33rd year of this Festival will be just as awesome as the 32 before it.

The line-up this year is pretty stellar:

THURSDAY, October 4th - Jaime y Los Chamacos, Ruben Ramos & The Mexican Revolution, Avizo…

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IT BEGINS TONIGHT! RUBEN RAMOS!

Friendly Reminder: Show Houston LEUV! Event on Tuesday

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Save the Date: Show Houston Some LEUV Fundraiser and Celebration on Sept. 25

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Latinos. Engaged. United. Voting. has set the date for their Fall Fundraiser and Celebration--September 25 at 6:30 p.m. at Julia's Bistro.

Latinos. Engaged. United. Voting. (LEUV) invites you to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Julia's Bistro!

This "FUNDRAISER and CELEBRATION" is dedicated to the candidates, volunteers and supporters of LEUV.

Our mission to develop and support candidates while championing community issues with the goal of increasing Latino/a voter participation and achieving effective representation of the Latino community in Harris County is impossible without your participation and donations.

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Make plans for Tuesday! Learn more about the Bonds on the Ballot!