Tremoloco - Curandera Volume I (2023)

This is new – something tagged “cantina music.” From what’s described it’s an eclectic roots band out of California — a mix of Sonoran Gothic folk, Gulf Coast roots & the delightful Tex-Mex Americana.

There are 12 tunes packed tight on this well-made creative soup of delicious tunes. This is their first new set in more than 3 years by a band that has always been a collective of various musicians since their inception in 2007. They kick off with “Mezcal,” — a splendid early Santana-feel, yet with its own distinctive sound. Then a segue into the beauty of “Dixie Overland Highway,” a slight swerve into Little Feat territory with an excellent storytelling lyric.

If you enjoy the Carlos Santana guitar sound or the melodic arrangements of Little Feat the first two songs will engage your ears. It’s also the variety of instruments that come into play – each provides inventive sound. Dabs of accordion mixed with a low whistle. It works. The band has shaped a remarkable musical identity.

By the third song “Junk Drawer,” it turns toward a Tom Waits/Jon Dee Graham stretch. Cool raw voice mixed with Tex-Mex guitars of the Texas Tornadoes type & predatory drums. Quite a good showcase. More country-inspired is the duet with Hannah Underwood — “The Man Who Never Cries,” with its vintage complexion done with style.

“Mas Que Nada,” has a nice Los Lobos accordion feel & the guitars are smartly played with a 50s tone surrounded by Spanish percussion. Melodic & soothing throughout.

Two thumbs up for this album. Highlights – “Mezcal,” “Dixie Overland Highway,” “Junk Drawer,” “The Man Who Never Cries,” “Mas Que Nada,” the superb “One Hand,” “Monterrey,” the beautiful “100 Years,” “Mexicano” & “Curandera.” Should be interesting.