Latin Playboys

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Latin Playboys

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When I first bought this CD about 2 years ago, I couldn't believe how good it was--and it is much better than the follow-up, 'Dose.' It is clear that the experimentation on this CD seriously affected the musical direction of subsequent Los Lobos albums (heard 'Colossal Head' or 'This Time' yet?) The music here is simply intoxicating--soulful, mezmerizing, yet rough, fragmented, and minimalistic at the same time. I won't go into individual tracks since the album is best listened to in one complete sitting (which shouldn't be too difficult since it clocks in at under 40 minutes). I often play this CD while laying in bed, waiting to fall asleep. How can an album featuring so much distorted vocals, sharp drum beats, buzz-sawed guitars, and other electronically-concocted sounds be so beautiful and so musically enriching? Well, it is. This is a CD not just for Los Lobos fans, but for anyone interested in well-crafted experimental music that is not the least bit self-indulgent. A solid, solid effort.

I felt that as a whole this a weak CD. Six of the tracks are pretty hard to listen to so I feel they throw of the feel of the album. I start to get the feel for the disc than a really bad track comes on and ruins everything for me. But Crayon sun and Forever Night Shade Mary were the best by far. I bought this disc solely for Forever Night Shade Mary. Its a beautiful subtle track that deserves a listen. the bass is present but really soft and laid back, and the guitar is incredibly mellow. All the instruments melt together so well in that song. Overall this album is very experimental, reminiscent of the Velvet Underground in some ways. a cheap used copy is all i can really justify.