Austin City Limits Season 46 Episode 7 The Mavericks: En Espanol

The acclaimed music television series Austin City Limits marks its 45th season with a wide variety of music genres, featuring both established and up-and-coming artists. In episode 21 of season 45, titled "The Mavericks: En Espanol," the show hosts the Grammy-winning band The Mavericks as they explore the richness and diversity of Latin music.

The Mavericks have been honing their unique blend of country, rock, and Tex-Mex since the late '80s, earning a cult following with their captivating live performances and their elegant and soulful music. On this episode, the band performs songs in Spanish, highlighting their deep connection to Latin culture and introducing their audience to an array of rhythms and styles.

The episode starts with a lively performance of "La Sitiera," a classic Cuban song that showcases the band's Latin flair and lead singer Raul Malo's powerful, emotive voice. The band uses traditional instruments such as the accordion, the bongos, and the congas to create a festive and danceable sound, evoking the warmth and joy of Latin celebrations.

The Mavericks then switch gears with "Recuerdos," a melancholic ballad that showcases Malo's ability to convey a range of emotions through his singing. The song's sparse arrangement, with acoustic guitar and upright bass as the only accompaniment, emphasizes the beauty and simplicity of the melody and Malo's haunting vocals.

The band then invites a special guest, Edie Brickell, to join them for a duet of "Besame Mucho," a beloved Mexican song that has been covered by countless artists. Brickell's delicate and soulful voice blends seamlessly with Malo's, creating a tender and romantic atmosphere. The band's arrangement, with harmonica and slide guitar adding subtle colors, retains the song's timeless quality while adding a touch of Americana.

The Mavericks then perform another classic song, "Sabor a Mi," a bolero that has become a staple of Latin music since it was first recorded in 1959. The band's version features Malo's crooning vocals, augmented by lush strings and accordion, creating a romantic and cinematic vibe. The song's memorable melody and poetic lyrics, combined with the band's soulful performance, make it a highlight of the episode.

The Mavericks conclude their En Espanol set with "Amor No Muere," an original song that showcases the band's songwriting skills and their commitment to honoring Latin music traditions while adding their own twist. The song's lively, horn-driven arrangement, along with Malo's witty and playful lyrics, creates a fun and upbeat mood that leaves the audience wanting more.

Throughout the episode, Austin City Limits' signature stage design, with its dark background and moody lighting, adds a dramatic and intimate touch to the performances, emphasizing the musicians' skill and personality. The show's editing and sound mixing, which are always top-notch, capture the nuances and energy of the band's performance, making it a compelling and immersive viewing experience.

Overall, Austin City Limits season 45 episode 21, "The Mavericks: En Espanol," is a testament to the power and beauty of Latin music and to the versatility and creativity of The Mavericks. The band's passion for the music and their dedication to delivering authentic and entertaining performances make this episode a must-watch for fans of Latin, country, and rock music.