Historia [DVD]

LA HISTORIA collects tracks from a couple of the A.B. Quintanilla-helmed Kumbia Kings' previous albums--SHHH! and AMOR, FAMILIA Y RESPETO. As such, it's not so much a best-of, but more of a chance to sample the early wares of a band whose last release, 4, was nominated for a 2003 Latin Grammy. The songs here skew more heavily to the cumbia side of things instead of the poppy R&B into which the band occasionally dips its collective toe. (The set includes only two nods in that direction, "Reggae Kumbia" and "You Don't Love Me," both in alternate mixes.)

The group also wisely sticks to what it knows best, in the form of such tried-and-true favorites as "La Cucaracha" and the almost-dancehall crossover "Boom Boom" (arguably a more productive direction than the Kings' R&B explorations). LA HISTORIA is a worthy summation of the Kumbia Kings' youthful efforts and a worthwhile primer for new fans.