*** LOS SUPER SEVEN

(RCA)

This ad hoc Tex-Mex supergroup offer the proverbial embarrassment of riches, three generations' worth -- elder statesmen (singers Freddy Fender and Ruben Ramos, accordionist Flaco Jimenez), journeymen (David Hidalgo and Cesar Rosas of Los Lobos, token Anglo Joe Ely), and rising young stars (country singer Rick Treviño, plus such guests as accordionist Joel Guzman and bassist Max Baca). The songs are mostly south-of-the-Rio-Grande folk and standards that the musicians' grandparents would have sung or heard on the radio. Richly arranged and performed loosely but affectionately, the music is timeless -- sadly so in the case of Woody Guthrie's "Plane Wreck at Los Gatos (Deportee)" (sung by Ely), which indicates that the immigrant's plight hasn't changed in decades). The CD lacks some of the fire of the ensemble's live shows, but this is a fine party record all the same. Even if you don't know Spanish or can't tell norteño from conjunto, you'll recognize these tunes are classics whose deep sorrow (Fender's "Piensa en Mí") or two-stepping exuberance (Jimenez's "Margarita") need no translation.

-- Gary Susman