When the
Tejano Music Awards declared Texas Latino Best New Artist
in '93, the stage was set for one of the hottest new bands
to emerge on the scene. Texas Latino is more than a group
of musicians; they are the strongest young professionals
ever assembled in the Tejano music industry. While words
are easy to come by, the chemistry that brings these young
guns together can be experienced in their premier CD "Don't
Mess with Texas". Though this was their first CD, you
can't tell from the sound of their work.
Luis Ortiz, author of Culturas' mega hits, "Besame"
and "Ay Mama", came to Texas Latino along with
well-known Culturas accordion player Candor "Candyman"
Tovar. Both were tried and true professionals with proven
track records. Luis, a song writing guitar player with
a Tejano heart as big as his talent, is a San Antonio
product. The Candyman is so nicknamed because of his sweet
accordion passages and overwhelmingly complicated musical
runs. Rick Acosta, lead singer and sax player, is the
point man for this super group and his voice is as deep
and strong as the Mississippi river. Also coming from
Oscar G's Sol are Manuel "Memo" Enriquez (Bass)
and J.B. Hernandez on drums. All three are the voice,
heart and soul of Texas Latino. With the vocal style of
Rick and the driving rhythms of Memo and J.B., Texas Latino
is a guarantee hit, now and for years to come. The youngest
member of this group, Severo Contreras, is the keyboard
specialist, but do not let this youthful hunk suprise
you. Formerly with Tiger Diaz, Severo is an innovative
musician with lighting quick fingers and style that will
be imitated by many and duplicated by none.
These young artists bond with their fans igniting an
unquenchable thirst for their music. As frontrunners,
they have appeared on television shows including "Aqui
Rogelio," and "Puro Tejano".
Texas Latino has given back to faithful fans by helping
the YMCA, San Antonio Holy Cross High School, and the
Santa Rosa Children's Hospital in San Antonio, just for
starters. Texas Latino is a lean, mean example of a healthy
powerful Tejano Band.
Texas Latino's release "Stempede" is in the
right step. This new CD has three cumbias, five polkas,
one slow ballad, and a swingin' country tune. Though the
album is a stunning jewel, their live performance is their
crowning achievement. The first release titled La Ultima
Lagrima is an original composition of guitarist Luis Ortiz
and drummer JB Hernandez and is currently receiving hot
airplay. Altogether, the songs are all energy. Surely,
the history behind Texas Latino has been the springboard
to their quick success.
