Search - Ruben Fuentes :: 50 Anos

El Maestro del Mariachi

Enrique Torres | San Diegotitlan, Califas | 04/24/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you like mariachi music than you are most likely familiar with Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan, the granddaddy of mariachi bands and arguably one of the best. Ruben Fuentes is part of the glue that has contributed to the longevity of this band, although personnel has changed throughout its history. Besides producing and directing of M.V.D.T. he has written or co-written some of the greatest and most well known mariachi songs that are part of the repertoire of most the contemporary mariachi groups. Spanning 50 years of compositions, the songs featured on this disc demostrate his super star status has a writer, producer and director in his genre. If you like huapangos than you will love this disc. The disc features three sets of huapangos, each set is a mini version of the song, done in a sort of a popurri style. The beautiful vocals of this style of music are probably best associated with Miguel Aceves Mejia with its drawn out lingering notes that reach the upper registrar. Quite possibly his most famous song , and the often recorded "La Bikina" is naturally featured in a mostly musical variety with only minimal refrains. Other well known Fuentes songs included are "La Noche y Tu", "La del Rebozo Blanco," "Hablame Corazon," "La Ultima Cancion," and "Que Bonito es mi Tierra." Part of the beauty of this disc is that there are many less familiar songs featured. Although there are only 10 songs listed, in reality there are 19 songs because as stated, some are included as sets in huapangos #1-#3. A nice addition to your maariachi collection, the recording is crystaline and up to todays standards. If you are like me and look for mariachi recordings with different songs than the standards "La Negra" or "Guadalajara" than you will enjoy this collection of Ruben Fuentes compositions with the classic Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitaln. Recommended for mariachi aficionados or music for your next fiesta."