Let's Get Real

It's a shame it took eight years for these hot trottin', Latin blues dudes to grab the public's attention. This reunion album makes one wonder why their blues groove didn't catch wind on their debut effort in 1992. Among the friends joining in on the fun sessions are often-compared-to colleagues like Los Lobos' David Hidalgo, the Texacali Horns, the reunion organizer John "Juke" Logan, and Doug MacLeod. KPCC radio host Sancho adds his blessings on "Church of El Monte," explaining how all that music making started as the centerpiece of neighborhood parties. Public transportation is the setting for a romantic meeting in "Blue Line," inspired by brother Steve Delgado's commute to his day job. Lively merrymaking breathes even on goodbyes to the departed in "L.A. Ellie" (dedicated to Logan's mom) and "No Regrets" (to the memory of muy grande percussionist Ray Solis).