After four decades, Los Temerarios have returned to the studio with an ode to romance. The iconic grupero band‘s delicate balance between rootsy regional Mexican music and sugary pop has often divided fans, but their melodies and inoffensive lyrics have kept them radio staples since their debut in the late ’80s.
Como Te Recuerdo features stunning introductions with acoustic guitar and congas. Gustavo’s honeyed tenor fills every note of conviction from his lyrics of heartbreak on Como Te Recuerdo; similarly, sweeter ballads, such as Bella Pero Mala and its sublime piano/twangy guitar combination is exquisite. Adolfo takes an active part this time around in writing all four tracks (including flamenco Gitana Baila) himself; his voice now rivals those of Art Garfunkel or George Michael!
Los Temerarios remain one of the most beloved bands in Latin music despite its disbandment, and will tour this fall to promote its new release, making a stop at Freeman Coliseum on Oct 13.
Though their initial norteno-grupero fusions didn’t meet sales expectations, the group has since adopted an urban sound and embraced ballad-centric genres such as ballad centric. Even when heavyweight bands such as los Bukis and Bronco had broken up in the 1990s they continued their position at the top of Grupero heap.
Como Te Recuerdo continues their legacy of producing sound over poetic or profound lyrics, and their latest offering doesn’t disappoint in that respect. The lush production on Como Te Recuerdo makes for a captivating listening experience while their accomplished musicians, led by drummer Fernando Angel, play with incredible virtuosity.
As the album progresses, its sound becomes increasingly refined and pop-oriented, as evidenced by tracks like La Mujer que Sone. On heartbreak-themed ballad Por Que Sera there’s doo-wop rhythm and calliope-sounding keyboard riffs; while for cumbia fans nothing can rival Los Temerarios’ subtle yet infectious grooves seen on Comer a Besos.
This album‘s beautiful cover features an appealing picture of all four band members at their height, marking a quantum leap in packaging and design for Los Temerarios; yet their music remains pure vintage Los Temerarios; making this classic an absolute must for fans of romantic emotional ballads!