Escovedo's "La Cruzada" sees light of day (again)

The Spanish version of Escovedo's 2018 well-received "The Crossing," includes the first single, "Algo Azul."

The 17-song album, which tells the story of two young immigrants to the U.S., who bond over a mutual love of punk rock as they struggle with the racism and discrimination as immigrants, becomes an even more intimate experience. Although not intended to be autobiographical, the album is, in many ways, the story of Escovedo's own life.

Translated and recorded in Spanish, the lead vocals are helmed by Alex Ruiz (Del Castillo), who overlaid Spanish vocals on the original album's instrumental tracks and features guest vocals from Patricia Vonne, Vanessa Del Fierro and Escovedo. Escovedo worked with Ruiz to translate the songs together.

"I chose Alex because he has a greater command of the Spanish language and having his voice, especially with this material, story and songs, takes it to a different level than my voice did," said Escovedo. In addition, Ruiz's bandmate Rick del Castillo helped produce.

"I began developing this story about a southern Italian boy named Salvo and a young boy named Diego from Saltillo, Mexico, who meet in Galveston, Texas while working in an Italian restaurant," said Escovedo. "They set out on a journey in search of the America created by beat poets, rock 'n' roll savants, new wave films and the underground garage. The America they discover is a very divided and unwelcoming land filled with racism and unrest. 'La Cruzada' is the realization of a dream that I've always had to record an album in Spanish in honor of my father's heritage, and it has finally come to life."

The track listing is:
1. Andare
2.Pasos Por Las Sombras
3. Tejas Es Mi Madre
4. Equipaje Adolescente
5. Algo Azul

Side 2
6. Bandido Para Ti
7. Amor Puro view
8. Esperandome
9. Cuantas Veces

Side 3
10. Lluvia De Flor De Cerezo
11. Sonica USA
12. Rio Navidad
13. Ciudad Plateada

Side 4
14. Furia Y Fuego
15. Volador
16. MC Overload
17. La Cruzada