For those who have seen the band live, the crowd really gets its groove on when David Hidalgo reaches for the accordion and the percussion picks up another notch. They have been playing these tunes for nearly three decades now, since their wedding and quinceañera salad days. The long-haired, mid-70s photos in the CD booklet are living proof. Equally priceless is the fee-for-services agreement made with New Vista Productions reprinted within. Los Lobos' end of the deal is to "provide musical talent (equal to a virtually incalculable sum) arranging and performing." Let's just say the Wolves kept their end of the bargain.

Most striking to me was the youthful sound of their voices. I barely recognize the twenty-something voices that today are richer, fuller storytellers with nearly twenty years on the road behind them. From the familiar "Guantanamera" to the son picking sounds made more famous recently by Buena Vista Social Club, Los Lobos were already skilled musicians ready to start the wonderful fusion of the old school with the rock and roll blaring on their radios. So crack a beer (you know the Wolves would) and kick back to the sound that powered many a hot night in East Los Angeles and most likely still does.

Rating: 8

--Tim Frommer