Fernandez Mixes Old, New in a Polished Performance

Unlike so many young male vocal stars in Mexican popular music, Vicente Fernandez can be macho without betraying a hint of sleaze. This quality, along with the overwhelming musicianship of the mariachi ensemble that accompanied him Friday in the first of three sold-out shows at the Universal Amphitheatre, gives his concerts a wholesome, quality aura. Think of the events as the aural equivalent of comfort food.

Of the four titans from the golden era of Mexican pop (the others are Jorge Negrete, Pedro Infante and Javier Solis), Fernandez is the only survivor. And he seemed to take so much joy in connecting with his adoring fans Friday that it’s hard to believe he has been on the scene long enough to have recorded 50 albums.

Far from relying on his expected hits (which include staples from the ranchera tradition including “Volver Volver” and the hauntingly beautiful “Nuestro Juramento”), he showcased most of his excellent new album “Estatua de Marfil.” A standout here was “Nos Estorba la Ropa,” a Teodoro Bello composition with blatantly sensual lyrics.

Visually, the presentation was a delight. Fernandez was surrounded by staging that suggested a colonial street in Mexico, complete with flowerpots, empty park benches and a little balcony. With his powerful, commanding voice and beaming self-confidence, Fernandez seemed to be right where he belonged: in the spotlight.