Los Tigres del Norte

If any norteño group should be compared to Bob Dylan, Rubén Blades, U2, or the Clash, it's probably Los Tigres del Norte. Over the years, these norteño/Tex-Mex rebels have maintained their outlaw image and refused to soften their lyrical blows; Los Tigres' rough-and-tumble tales of Mexican-American life along the U.S./Mexico border can usually be counted on to have plenty of bite (as well as a healthy dose of humor). And when they sing about "la migra" -- that is, U.S. immigration officials -- they aren't exactly supportive. No one will ever accuse Los Tigres del Norte of being card-carrying members of the "La Migra Fan Club" -- not in this life, anyway. Full of gutsy, memorable lyrics, this collection is a fine representation of what they do. Songs like "El Tamal" and "El Corrido del Doctor Fonseca" are great examples of their colorful, vibrant approach to storytelling; like Rubén Blades singing "Pedro Navaja" for salsa/Afro-Cuban audiences, Los Tigres are great at bringing their characters and stories to life. Those who have at least some knowledge of Spanish will get a lot out of Los Tigres' lyrics; however, one doesn't have to speak any Spanish to appreciate the sound of the band. Regardless of one's knowledge of Spanish, these guys have a sound that is totally addictive; the accordion-powered fusion of polka and ranchera that makes norteño what it is works amazingly well for Los Tigres on this excellent collection. ~ Alex Henderson, All Music Guide