"South of the Border" is a vibrant and diverse collection of tracks by the legendary Flaco Jimenez, released in 2010 under Joey Records. Spanning a mere 37 minutes, this album is a lively journey through a mix of Tejano, Latin country, polka, and Cajun genres, showcasing Jimenez's versatility and mastery of these styles.
The album opens with the energetic "Open Up Your Heart" and continues with a blend of original tracks and classic covers, such as "Help Me Make It Through the Night" and "For the Good Times," originally popularized by Kris Kristofferson. Jimenez's unique accordion skills shine throughout, particularly in tracks like "Mexican Joe" and "El Pantalon Blue Jean."
A standout feature of this album is the fusion of cultures and languages, with songs in both English and Spanish, reflecting Jimenez's rich heritage and musical influences. The title track, "South of the Border," along with others like "Delgadita Alta y Trigueña" and "Carta Jugada," offers a taste of traditional Mexican and Latin American sounds.
"South of the Border" is a testament to Flaco Jimenez's enduring legacy in the world of music, offering a delightful mix of old and new, traditional and contemporary. It's an album that celebrates cultural diversity and musical innovation, making it a compelling listen for fans of world music and beyond.