In the tradition of Texas blues greats like Stevie Ray Vaughan, this record by San Antonio's Ruben V is plum full of twitchin' guitar, funk-ridden bass lines, and extremely soulful singing, from Ruben's own vocal to the back up choir on the first track, "Life Ain't Supposed to Be." Before I knew it, my foot was spontaneously jumping up and down. Unfortunately, unlike the very idea of blues, most of the disc is quite upbeat and happy. Ah well... I still enjoyed this credible music when I saw him in a smoky little club, just as I'm enjoying it now. For info, write: 2313 Lockhill Selma, Box 187, San Antonio TX 78230
