Cervantes follows a long line of Latin-influenced macho performers have enjoyed popularity in the United States, and for that matter around the world, going back to Tito Guizar, Xavier Cugat, Desi Arnaz and Herb Alpert. Craig's music takes this tradition forward, combining elements of Spanish, Mexican, Brazilian, Castilian and Portugese culture.

This collection was recorded in Los Angeles with the creme of West Coast musicians. They exalted in playing Cervantes' songs, as they reflect his Latin heritage with liberal echoes of Santana, Jose Feliciano and others, not to mention the sounds of the South Beach in Miami. The performances are varied in concept and sound, overwhelmingly romantic, sometime hypnotic and, in the case of "Girl From Ipanema," take something familiar and make it fresh.

"My voice has been described as Neil Diamond singing Ricky Martin," Cervantes says with a laugh. "This album really expresses my love of music, my affinity with my heritage, and a true faith in the power of romance. We worked very hard to make it the best it could be."

In this effort, Cervantes was supported by his co-producer, Nick Trevisick, who has produced for Jose Feliciano and Tom Saviano and worked with David Foster. The album was engineered by Tom Weir at Studio City Sound in Los Angeles.

The City of the Angels is a magic place with which Cervantes has enjoyed a lifelong love affair. A native of St. Louis, he evidenced musical talent at an early age. By 21 he was working as a drummer for fellow St. Louisan Chuck Berry. Recruited for the California Institute of the Arts, he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts and then his Master of Fine Arts. Performing with the Cal Arts percussion ensemble, he was encouraged in his career by Barbra Streisand after appearing a reception she gave for Frank and Barbara Sinatra. Cervantes later studied in Mandras, India, focusing on Indian culture and music. ("One night I had the opportunity to stay in one of the turrets of the Taj Mahal," he mused. "Talk about romantic!"). Then he went to Boston to study jazz at the Berklee College of Music.

That's all quite a journey and this collection gathers all these experiences into a symphony of sunny, romantic, joyous music. There's a lot going on here: A love for the California sun, surf and ambience; the lure of romance; the dangerous intoxication of dreams; the intrigue of seduction; the regret of love gone wrong.

It's a big musical ticket. You're certain to find your favorite stops along the way as you experience each song. You'll be glad you joined Craig Cervantes for the ride.

bio by: Wayne Brasler,Journalism Educator and Journalist, University of Chicago