Los Cenzontles (The Mockingbirds) and Andre Thierry are both from the Richmond / San Pablo area of San Francisco's East Bay, a working class neighborhood, home to Creole and Mexican American communities for generations. Steeped in their cultures, both groups have passionately embraced and cultivated their traditions into uniquely proud and powerful voices. "Shades of Brown" is a celebration of their shared love of neighborhood, accordions, soulful singing and dancing to the oldies. Adding to the special sauce is the inimitable David Hidalgo of Los Lobos.