1. Flex - 'La Evolucion Romantic Style'
Panama's Flex had a big hit on his hands with his 2008 album Te Quiero and the single by the same name. He calls his music - a mix of Panamanian reggae, R&B and hip hop - 'romantic reggae' and that feeling of romance is reflected in the name of his new album. Just in time for reggae-style Valentine.
2. Conjunto Primavera - 'Mentir Por Amor'
To my mind, Conjunto Primavera is one of the best norteno bands around and, judging by their huge fan base, I'm not alone. Mentir Por Amor has 10 tracks of boleros, rancheras and cumbias including the Joan Sebastian composed "Mi Primera Vez."
3. Los Fabulosos Cadillacs - 'La Luz del Ritmo'
Argentinean rockers Los Fabulosos Cadillacs were one of the big rock-en-espagnol bands in the 1990s until they split in 2001. There have been a number of their compilation albums since then but the bandmembers went their separate ways. Now they're back together with a new 'phase' and a new album - good news for Latin rock fans. Look for the group to tour on the heels of La Luz del Ritmo.
4. Los Temerarios - 'Evolucion De Amor'
Los Temerarios combine traditional ranchera with more modern instrumentation to create what some have called 'bubblegum ranchera'. Sweeping ballads are the signature sound of Los Temerarios and 2008's Si Tu Te Vas was the first album in 6 years by the popular group from Fresnillo, Zacatecas, Mexico. Fans want more, soe here's the follow-up.
5. Duelo - 'Necesito Mas de Ti'
Norteno band Duelo hails from Roma, Texas - you might know them as Grupo Duelo or Duelo Norteno - both names they've used in the past.
6. Iskander - 'Fresas Con Vodka'
New Mexican pop artist Iskander's "A Labio Dulce" was a surprise hit last year; now he's back to see if he can do it again.
7. Armik - 'Serenata'
Popular flamenco guitarist Armik is back with another 'new age' flamenco-style recording of all-guitar, all-romantic, all-mellow music. Here's another potential Valentine Day winner.
