Artist: Los Lonely Boys
Album:Self-Titled
Label: Epic Records
Rating:
Reviewer: Christi Holman

Take three brothers, add an upbringing rooted in classic rock and southwest culture, toss in a heap of talent, and what you get is Los Lonely Boys. Proudly touted as Willie Nelson's favorite new band, Los Lonely Boys has succeeded in crossing genre lines with their self-titled debut album. It's a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll...but the Boys' sound is also reminiscent of other famous Latino musicians such as Santana and Los Lobos. Los Lonely Boys, however, have more than enough talent to stand on their own. The guitar work is liquid-smooth and brings a wonderful, bluesy feel to each song. Moreover, the harmonious vocals provided by the band's three brothers are almost flawless, and the frequent departures into Spanish gives the entire album a sensual, laid-back feel.

More than that, though, this album is happy and optimistic, even if the words aren't all sunshine-and-flowers. While that not make sense immediately, it will after you hear the music. Los Lonely Boys seem to have a "too cool for angst" vibe that is an absolutely delight to hear. For example, the album's single, "Heaven" manages to remain remarkably catchy after dozens of listens, and despite lyrics that wouldn't normally seem to lend themselves ("I've been locked up way too long/ In this crazy world/ How far is heaven?") to that kind of accessibility.

What makes this album a gem and a must-have for any music fan, though, is the unpretentiousness of Los Lonely Boys. I've always had a soft spot in my heart for any band that sounds like a concert band even in a studio recording. This album has all the honesty of a live show - but a live show that you can take home! What could be better than that?

If you're looking for a warm, comfortable album that brings to mind summer evenings and the smell of pinions on a quiet breeze, this is for you. It's the kind of music you can imagine hearing floating through the front screen door while you sit on the porch, watching the New Mexican sunset. Turn it on, close your eyes, and imagine summer has arrived.