Hot Tunes, Summer in the City

Houston Press Music Awards Showcase 2002

A A A Comments By Olivia Flores Alvarez and Greg Barr and Gilbert Garcia and Craig D. Lindsey and John Nova Lomax and Bob Ruggiero and Troy Schulze and Matt Sonzala and Roger Wood Thursday, Jul 18 2002

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She's usually called Houston's salsa queen, but Norma Zenteno's sound is actually Latin jazz. And although most folks think of her strictly as a singer, she's also a gifted songwriter and musician. Zenteno has a sultry style, a loyal and enthusiastic audience, and a couple of well-received self-produced CDs, so she ought to be record label candy -- but apparently A&R execs aren't as savvy as Houston fans. Zenteno's other band is the rock-based Raised by Wolves. Despite the name, she was actually raised by Roberto Zenteno, a premier trumpeter who often appears with his daughter and also fronts his own orchestra. (Given her slew of charming and handsome brothers -- Robert, David, Javier and Ernest, also musicians -- she could have called the group Raised with Wolves, but hey, that's another story.) -- O.F.A.
9 p.m. Spy (inside)

Zydeco Dots
Best Zydeco

Trik Turner

David Caceres

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In terms of mainstream exposure, these Dots (not polka but zydeco -- get it?) have ruled the roost on the local scene for years. Originally founded by Tee Potter and Mike Vee, this progressive zydeco band went through several accordionists (remember that succession of Pierres?) before linking up with the amazing Leon Sam a few years ago. Since then they've really hit their musical stride. Son of Creole legend Herbert "Good Rockin'" Sam, Leon squeezes that music box and soulfully sings in a style that evokes the late King of Zydeco (and former Houston resident) Clifton Chenier. Check out their latest CD, Tribute to Clif, or catch them live for proof. Either way, you'd better lace up your dancing shoes. -- R.W.
7 p.m. Live Sports Cafe