With a fresh sound that evokes comparisons to Costumbre and Duelo, the five-man band  is also influenced by groups such as Intocable. their songs are a blend of romantic tunes with a fresh instrumental mix to produce an inviting sound.

(Courtesy Centro Cervantes) Pakto, debut CD.

Pakto is based in Laredo and the group is pretty young as most of its members are 21 or younger.

Fans can get a taste of the band by listening to tunes like "Y Para Que" and "Dime Tu," on their website www.pakto.net and http://www.myspace.com/pakto2007.

The importance of new bands in any genre, can't be understated. A constants flow of new, young bands with original sounds is what provides the fuel for any style of music to keep evolving and avoid becoming stale.

Last year, Pakto was nominated for a 2008 Premios a La Musica Latina in the category of Mejor Revelacion. They were up against the Kumbia All Starz, Leslie Lugo and Los Super Reyes. The Kumbia All Starz took the prize.

The group was formed in Laredo in 2005 when Hiram de Rubin teamedup with a few other musicians. Initially, the group recorded three songs - "Como creerte," "Enamorado de ti," and "Una pregunta." That new sound turned a few heads and then San Antonio's GSM Records, an independent label run by graphic artist Jorge Flores, signed the group.

After some personnel changes, the band went into the studio to record their first CD "Sentimientos Perdidos" last year. The group, led by De Rubin, includes Edgar Garza, drums; Raymundo Johnson, bajo sexto; Juan Bautista, bass; and Elpidio Tamez, accordion.