Conjunto Bernal – Mi Unico Camino, Original First Recordings / Arhoolie CD-9060

Description

CD 9060

Paulino Bernal – accordion & vocals; Eloy Bernal – bajo sexto & vocals; Ruben Perez – high lead voice bass & drums.

Accordionist/singer/composer Paulino Bernal is one of the true superstars of Tejano Conjunto music. With his brother Eloy on bajo sexto and the addition of Ruben Perez’s high voice Conjunto Bernal broke the traditional barriers of this Texas dance music by introducing three-part vocal harmonies a sound widely popular among middle class Mexicans and incorporating an orquesta sound into their arrangements. Here are 15 original hits recorded in the 1950s with plenty of polkas showing off Paulino’s superb accordion.

1.Mi Unico Camino (Ranchera)
2.Las Palabras Del Amor (Bolero)
3.Loretta Polka
4.Mi Borrachera (Ranchera)
5.Destino Cruel (Ranchera)
6.Al Fin Mujer (Ranchera)
7.Pa’ Que Me Hago Ilusiones (Ranchera)
8.Azul Cielo (Schotis)
9.Si Acaso Vuelves (Ranchera)
10.Desprecio (Ranchera)
11.Fidel Castro Polka
12.Melodias Mexicanas (Potpuri)
13.Al Regresar (Bolero)
14.Connie (Polka)
15.Sentimiento Y Rencor (Ranchera)

REVIEW

“In addition to monster hits like their trademark “Mi Unico Camino” and the swooping “Sentimiento y Rencor ” there are plenty of easygoing polka instrumentals…and adapted rancheras…that demonstrate not only the trio’s textural diversity but the superb deftness and remarkable alacrity of their instrumental work.”

-Gary von Tersch Blues & Rhythm