Grammy award winner Chente Barrera is back with his newest full-length release. This time, he’s also turned into a music mogul of sorts after partnering with fellow Grammy winner Gilbert Velasquez and Jorge Marroquin to form VMB Music Group, which released Chente’s new album, Un Nuevo Amor.
The album is Chente’s 9th album in his 17 year solo career. Previously, he was the long-time drummer and backing vocalist for Jay Perez. In 2007, Chente won the Grammy for Best Tejano Performance for his album, Sigue El Taconazo.
The title track was released in 2015 as part of a VMB compilation featuring their artist line-up and has enjoyed some time on the charts and continues to be a fan favorite. With a horn-driven lead-up to some amazing lyrics, Chente delivers this ranchera as only he can.
The lead-off tune, No Me Vuelvo Enamorar, gives us an indication of the direction of the album–Totally Tejano. Or, as Chente tells, “It’s time to get up and get down!” The following tune should also be a radio and fan favorite as Chente teams up with Raulito Navaira on Los Dos Amantes.
Chente has never disappointed on cumbias and Te Extraño Tanto and Mi Vaquerita will leave fans satisfied and toe-tapping.
Backed by the introductory strumming of a guitar, some acordeon and a horn section, Chente gives us a drinkin’ song in Nada Mas Te Digo Adios. Delivered with all the emotions a song like this should have, Chente makes this song his.
No doubt, Chente and his backing musicians are apt at delivering the ranchera style of Tejano music–whether it’s keyboard, acordeón-, or horn-driven. Ya No Te Aguanto, Solo, Si Tu Te Vas, and Apenas Te Conozco are prime examples of such songs. Solo is my personal favorite with its smooth guitar strumming (Gilbert V), acordeón solo, and it’s beautiful lyrics.
Of course, we’re also provided a treat with the classic, Aunque Mal Paguen Ellas, sung by Chente and Genaro Aguilar of Los Aguilares. Of course, Los Aguilares recently celebrated their 56th Anniversary in the music business.
DosCentavos gives a tip of the sombrero to Chente for this great album, as well as for the six tunes he penned. Get your copy this weekend at Club Area 45 where Chente will be featured along with Boni Mauricio and Tejano crooner Ram Herrera. You can also find it online at VMB Music.