Los Lobos - By The Light Of The Moon (1987) [2012 SACD]

Los Lobos might have touted themselves as “just another band from East L.A.”, but it’s quite likely that even the group’s humble members recognized that few—if any—other artists in the late 1980s rivaled their soulful music, rousing performances, and eclectically blended arrangements. While lacking the commercial status of the quintet’s subsequent La Bamba release, By the Light of the Moon stands as the band’s most enjoyable excursion into American-hued soul, penetratingly reflective lyrics, and earnest roots rock. The music making is simply extraordinary.

Tracks:

01. One Time, One Night
02. Shakin' Shakin' Shakes
03. Is This All There Is?
04. Prenda Del Alma
05. All I Wanted To Do Was Dance
06. Set Me Free (Rosa Lee)
07. The Hardest Time
08. My Baby's Gone
09. River Of Fools
10. The Mess We're In
11. Tears Of God

Personnel:

David Hidalgo - vocals, guitar, accordion, fiddle, Requinto jarocho
Louie Pérez - vocals, guitar, drums, Jarana huasteca
Cesar Rosas - vocals, guitar, Bajo Sexto
Conrad Lozano - vocals, bass, Guitarron
Steve Berlin - keyboards, horns