I’ve been of the opinion for a couple of years now that Los Lobos is one of the finest rock bands around. Rosas is one of the singer/guitarists in that band. This is his first solo album, and it’s a doozy. If you’re a fan of the band, you’ll like this CD. Bluesy funk, rootsy rock, Latino polkas, soul ballads, and much more dominate this very electric collection. Rosas leads the proceeding with his soulful singing, workman-like guitar playing, and killer songwriting. Cuts like “Tough To Handle,” “Shack And Shambles,” and “Struck” sound like the tough R&B sound of Los Lobos filtered through a soulman’s eyes. And the Hendrixian-rock of the title cut brings immediate smiles to the face.
Both Rosas and Los Lobos guitarmate David Hidalgo continue to dabble in other projects, but it doesn’t seem to hurt the band or make the solo projects less listenable. In fact, it probably keeps the band fresh. As with any project those two are part of, this one is highly recommended.
This article originally appeared in VG‘s June ’99 issue. All copyrights are by the author and Vintage Guitar magazine. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.