Supergroups are all the rage nowadays in the hard rock music genre, but they usually consist of long-established artists. Formed in 2013, Sons Of Texas is a new breed of “supergroup.” A world away from Austin – the lone star state’s music hotbed – this powerful quintet, comprised of local all-stars from McAllen, has just burst onto the scene with their first single, “Baptized In The Rio Grande.”
Like a Texas tornado, “Baptized In The Rio Grande” grabs you from the first note with shredding guitars and an intense rhythm. Displaying dynamics that go well beyond their years, Sons Of Texas dial back the intensity during the soulful verses before taking it to another level when the chorus kicks in with heavy, melodic harmonies.
If you didn’t know any better, you might think that Zakk Wylde had made a guest appearance on the song, but the bending of notes and shredding solos actually come courtesy of lead guitarist, Jes De Hoyos. Because of the incredibly tight rhythm section consisting of guitarist, Jon Olivares, and the Villarreal brothers (Mike – drums, Nick – bass), De Hoyos is afforded the freedom to showcase his immense guitar skills. The impressive musicianship on “Baptized In The Rio Grande” provides an ideal backdrop for the soulful, gritty, impassioned vocals of frontman, Mark Morales, to bring the song to life.
Listening to “Baptized In The Rio Grande,” you are left wondering how a relatively inexperienced band of guys in their mid-20s could have a sound as seasoned and mature as bands with a decade or more under their belts. With their debut single, Sons Of Texas have proven that they are band poised to make their mark on the hard rock scene.
[…] For the moment, Sons Of Texas is still a bit below the radar, but I don’t expect that to last much longer. The band’s first single – “Baptized In The Rio Grande” (the title track from their forthcoming debut album) – is an instant attention-grabber. Hailing from McAllen, TX, this local all-star lineup was solidified in 2013, although their seasoned sound would lead you to believe that they have been together for much longer. With an intense rhythm, shredding guitars and soulful vocals, the huge sound of these up-and-comers is just another example of everything being bigger in Texas. (see full Hard Rock Daddy review). […]