LOS LOBOS WILL PERFORM SATURDAY, JULY 26

How will The Wolves (Los Lobos, en español) survive? Just fine, gracias! Formed amongst ‘70s high school friends, David Hidalgo, Louie Perez, Cesar Rosas and Conrad Lozano (plus ex-Blaster, Steve Berlin), they emerged out of the early ‘80s L.A. punk/roots scene and crafted a long, distinguished career that meandered well past the initial roots-rock blast of their major label introduction. Moving through experimental rock, children’s recordings, tributes and biographical concept albums, they did not stand pat, at any time, for long.

Los Lobos are one of those bands that exist in multiple dimensions at once. To some, they’re the La Bamba guys riding the Ritchie Valens cover into mainstream consciousness. To others, they’re crack East L.A. rockers, blending Mexican and American folk, rhythm & (especially) blues, and rock & roll into something eternal. To committed fans, Los Lobos are one of the most underrated, shape-shifting American bands of the last 40 years. Along the way, they’ve picked up twelve Grammy nominations and four wins in multiple categories. Los Lobos will remind you why rock & roll is more interesting when it doesn’t play by the rules. If you don’t walk away a believer, check your pulse.

- Jay Nelson