In Los Mocosos' musical world, rock, Latin, funk and Jamaican ska, blend together in a melting pot of sweaty horns, stinging guitars, and rock solid funky rhythms. After being handpicked by Carlos Santana to open a series ... more »of Santana arena dates last year, Los Mocosos went straight into the studio to create their latest release, American Us. The new CD takes this San Francisco based group on a quantum leap into new sonic territory. Produced by Greg Landau (Quetzal, Patato, Bobi Cespedes, Susana Baca) and mixed by Garry Hughes and Donal Hodgson (Sting, Vitamin C, Tina Turner) American Us is the most mature and accessible offering yet from this multi-cultural band. From the fresh cover of the classic low-rider anthem, "I?m Your Puppet" to the irresistible ska/pop of " Hey Mama" American Us is sure to open many new ears to the Los Mocosos sound.« less
In Los Mocosos' musical world, rock, Latin, funk and Jamaican ska, blend together in a melting pot of sweaty horns, stinging guitars, and rock solid funky rhythms. After being handpicked by Carlos Santana to open a series of Santana arena dates last year, Los Mocosos went straight into the studio to create their latest release, American Us. The new CD takes this San Francisco based group on a quantum leap into new sonic territory. Produced by Greg Landau (Quetzal, Patato, Bobi Cespedes, Susana Baca) and mixed by Garry Hughes and Donal Hodgson (Sting, Vitamin C, Tina Turner) American Us is the most mature and accessible offering yet from this multi-cultural band. From the fresh cover of the classic low-rider anthem, "I?m Your Puppet" to the irresistible ska/pop of " Hey Mama" American Us is sure to open many new ears to the Los Mocosos sound.
"Los Mocosos is a very unique band with strong latin roots from the Mission Dist. If you are a fan of Santana, Malo, War, Tower of Power this is a must CD for you to have in your collection. I have all Los Mocosos cd's and they are all great. This one includes an eclectic mix and a beautiful remake of "I'm your puppet". It is better than the original. These guys will go far and I hope they stay together for a long time to come. It is not very often that I like a whole CD but I like every song on this Cd. This is a cd that you must get. Check out their other cd Shades of Brown also a great cd. Peace Light Love Joy and enjoy this Los Mocosos cd. Ike"
Mocosos Rocks
Andres | New York | 07/03/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a great CD that takes this band down some new paths. I liked the fresh apporach to Latin music that goes beyond the tired salsa formulas or Ricky Martin crossovers. Senor presidente brings some fresh cumia sounds with a hip hop back beat and some interesting DJ textures. This is a great band to see live and this CD takes their act to the next level. Pa'lante."
Exciting new Music
Phillip E. Andrews | Santa Fe, NM United States | 07/09/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Los Mocosos show that they can bring the excitement of their live performances to the studio. This band which has caught the ear of Carlos Santana shows why Carlos calls them "the future of music.""
American fun kids
J. Flores | 02/22/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Los Mocosos (literally the fun kids) are keeping up with their efforts to mainstream their music. Although the band and their work is relatively unknown, their music continues to improve. This is their third release and is a pleasant collection of well arranged, well produced originals and standards. Their Latino style of music is fresh, orginal and uplifting."
One of the best Latin Alternative albums I've heard
L. Serna | Arlington, VA USA | 04/06/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Although I was not impressed with their prior two releases, Los Mocosos really stepped it up lyrically and musically on "American Us." Every song on this album is good. They finally found their groove, and they mix styles extremely well.
Tracks:
Bandolera Era: 9/10
The album starts off with this great up-tempo dance song.
Hey Mama: 9/10
This reggae influenced song is extremely catchy and is played and sung very well.
Vete/El Largo Adios: 9/10
This is a very good fairly upbeat track with great song structure.
I'm Your Puppet: 8/10
This is actually a good remake of the 1960's hit, but the lyrically weak 1980's style rapping toward the end of the song really diminishes its quality.
Amigos Y Amantes: 9/10
A great track that starts off with an electronic dance vibe, then switches to a great upbeat funky track.
Genius: 10/10
Los Mocosos finally nail a Ska-influenced song perfectly. I really like the message and love the music in this song. This is one of my favorite tracks.
Señor Presidente: 10/10
This is a cumbia/reggae influenced song that proves to be one of the best on the album. The lyrics are politically charged and catchy at the same time.
In the House: 9/10
While I'm generally not a fan the way Los Mocosos rap, they actually use their old-school style very well to communicate a positive message.
Volveiron: 8/10
This is a well-done primarily instrumental song in the style of old Santana and War.
The Beast: 8/10
This is a good reggae song about their interactions with the police.
Bacalao: 9/10
This is a hip/hop salsa song with a good message.
Blind Faith: 10/10
I love the lyrics in this song--definitely one of favorite tracks.
Overall: This is one of the best Latin Alternative/Latin fusion albums I've ever heard. If you're a fan of Ozomatli or Yerba Buena, you'll like this album."