Rancheras Vol. 2

Among Mexico's greatest ranchera heroes through the years, none have radiated brighter than Jorge Negrete and Pedro Infante. While there has been much debate about the relative differences between the two--Negrete had the operatic training--when it mattered, both men connected solidly. For Infante, the moments of critical impact come on the late lament "La Que Se Fue," the flight as metaphor for departing love on "Cucurrucucu Paloma," and the supremely sad "Cien A?os." The latter electrifies for its timeless love-was-good-and-true-while-it-lasted message while it ties in nicely with Infante's ever-humble demeanor. For Negrete, he eternalized "Me He de Comer Esa Tuna," "Cuando Quiere un Mexicano," "Asi Se Quiere en Jalisco," and especially "Yo Soy Mexicano," all about pride in culture and roots. Tall and handsome, he fit the charro cantor bill perfectly, evoking pride as one of Mexico's first true cinematic heroes. Two heroes, 30 songs: real value.