Flaco Jiménez - Entre Humo Y Botellas (CD)

All Music Guide

Flaco Jimenez has been the most popular accordionist to perform, compose and record conjunto music, not only cutting numerous singles and albums for regional labels but also serving as a sideman for well-known rockers like Doug Sahm and Ry Cooder. This anthology was pulled from singles he recorded between 1982 and 1987 and features the major styles preferred by conjunto performers; these include the swaying, arresting polkas, rancheras and boleros, all done in Spanish, with Jimenez's accordion and vocals prominently in the upper register. Despite the absence of thematic or musical variety, this is a good opportunity to hear one of the masters and popularizers of a folk idiom at his best.

- Ron Wynn, All Music Guide