Though they didn’t officially record together until 1990, Doug Sahm, Augie Meyers, Freddy Fender, and Flaco Jimenez had been playing in various incarnations since the early '60s. The naturalistic melding of styles, voices, and personalities that's found on Texas Tornados’ eponymous debut is the product of long-seasoned friendship and authentic camaraderie. Each man in this foursome isn’t just a fan of the others; the members clearly revel in the time they spend together. Sahm is a natural leader, bringing his coltish energy to the album’s two lovable singles: "Who Were You Thinkin’ Of” and “Adios Mexico.” While it would have been easy to make the record a vehicle for Sahm, the others are equally charismatic. Freddy Fender sings “If That’s What You’re Thinking,” and Fender and Jimenez duet on the Tejano stomp of “Soy de San Luis” with assistance from Sahm. Meyers is perhaps the least-known member of the group, but his star turns on “(Hey Baby) Que Paso” and “Dinero” show that he—maybe more than anyone else—embodies the melting pot of South Texas.