Veintisiete

Top grupo Temerarios takes a left turn on this ranchera tribute collection. Best known for keyboard-driven romantic cumbias, the Angel brothers, Adolfo and Gustavo, give their pipes a solid workout on gut-wrenching rancheras, considered the heartland music of Mexico. Just as cowboys and country music evoke America around the world, mariachis and rancheras are instantly recognized as Mexican icons. Surprisingly, the group pulls it off convincingly, especially on such classics as "Renuncacion," "La Diferencia," and "Que De Raro Tiene." While the brothers obviously do not compare to the original torchy singers like Javier Solis, Vicente Fernandez, or Cornelio Reyna, they bring a fresh, distinctive touch to gems such as "Lloraras," and "Sombras." --Ramiro Burr