With Realidades, the reigning kings of old-school norteño turn out a parade of powerful songwriting, driving two-step grooves, and signature accordion blasts from founder/bandleader Jorge Hernández. The album proves how much ground Los Tigres del Norte can cover—mixing in '50s R&B nostalgia on "Era Diferente,” the slow-dance sway of "Necesitamos Conversar" and the sultry minor-key lilt of "La Hija, La Mamá,” one of several cumbias. After decades of hits, the group still make sparks fly when they challenge social themes head-on, as with the marching rhythm and huge hook of the chart-topping single “La Bala.” Realidades is also notable for bringing bassist Hernán Hernández to the mic for several turns as the group’s lead vocalist.