POP MUSIC REVIEWS : Linda Ronstadt, the Great Communicator

At this point, it’s clear that Linda Ronstadt couldn’t care less: She knows she can sing mariachi music, and she’ll keep doing it for as long as she wants, no matter how many doubts are raised by purists who won’t forgive her the fact that she doesn’t speak fluent Spanish.

But she is still a great interpreter who can communicate the emotional essence of the music. In a simple but tasteful concert on Friday at the Glen Helen Blockbuster Pavilion, Ronstadt offered an intimate performance based on her latest album “Mas canciones” (“More Songs”), the follow-up to her critically admired “Canciones de mi padre” (“Songs of My Father”), which put her back in contact with her Mexican roots.

Backed by Nati Cano’s Los Camperos--one of the more traditional and acclaimed mariachi groups in the world--Ronstadt’s voice was in perfect shape and ready for the numerous, demanding falsettos of a music that requires singers with as much sweetness as power.

During Ronstadt’s three costume changes, Los Camperos (who also accompanied her on the two mariachi albums) had enough time to prove--by themselves and with a Mexican folkloric dance group--that they are in peak form.

Los Camperos’ presence in this show was more than another simple collaboration with Ronstadt. It was an actual showcase of their own new album, just released by Polygram Latino.

Although Ronstadt gave the group--and especially the male solo vocalists--enough time for a spirited, relaxed performance, it would have been good to give violinist Monica Trevino a chance to show her abilities as a solo singer.

Ronstadt has the desire, the quality and, for those who still evaluate artistry according to a particular blood type, she’s got the blood.