Courtesy: Asalto

Grupo Asalto, the rising stars of West Texas, have officially released their highly anticipated new EP Más Fuerte Que Ayer, offering fans a fresh and authentic musical experience that bridges Tejano tradition with modern influences. Frontman Jordan Rodriguez recently sat down with Tejano Nation Radio host Romeo to discuss the new release, sharing candid insights into the creative process and the emotional journey that inspired the project.

Seven Original Songs that Bridge Tejano and Modern Sounds

Rodriguez revealed that Más Fuerte Que Ayer is a seven-song EP packed with all-original material. “We worked with amazing songwriters—Eduardo ‘Yayo’ Anguiano, Jonathan Espinoza, Luis Garcia, and myself,” he explained. “We wanted to put something out that was original, because that’s what the people are always asking for.”

The EP reflects Asalto’s signature blend of Norteño, regional Mexicano, and Tejano, infused with contemporary sounds that resonate with younger audiences. “Of course, everybody always says, ‘Hey, that’s not Tejano,’” Rodriguez laughed. “We used some of the modern stuff that these kids are using these days, and we put it in our album. And it’s catching on pretty good for a lot of people.”

Rodriguez always pays homage to the pioneers of Tejano music—legends like Ram Herrera, Jay Perez, Latin Breed, and David Lee Garza—while emphasizing that each band must bring its own flavor to the genre. “Tejano is us. It’s not an adjective, it’s a noun for who we are,” he emphasized.

A Title Inspired by Personal Trials and Triumphs

Rodriguez opened up about the meaning behind the EP’s powerful title, Más Fuerte Que Ayer (“Stronger Than Yesterday”). “2024 was definitely a setback year for me,” he shared. “I went through some trials and tribulations that put me down as a man and as an artist. That’s why I named this EP Más Fuerte Que Ayer, because I truly felt that I stepped through a time in my life that made me stronger—stronger as a man, as a musician, and as a songwriter.”

He also spoke candidly about the difficult journey of coping with his father’s suicide and the support system that kept him grounded during the creative process. “The team that I have, they do a really good job of keeping me in a positive mindset,” he said.

A Visual EP Like No Other

In addition to the music, Grupo Asalto released a full visual EP—seven music videos produced by The Element, one for each song on the project. Rodriguez admitted it was a nerve-wracking process due to his ongoing battle with Bell’s palsy, a condition that has twice paralyzed part of his face and impacted his ability to sing and perform. “It’s become one of my insecurities that I’m learning to overcome,” he shared. “But having a team around you that picks you up makes all the difference.”

Rodriguez highlighted the video for “#TuYYo” featuring Latin Grammy-winning singer Cristina Salinas as a standout. “When she comes on the screen, you just feel her energy,” he said. “She changed the whole momentum of the video. It’s something you have to see.”

The visual EP runs approximately 27 minutes and tells a story that’s as personal as it is powerful—a testament to Asalto’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of Tejano music. Más Fuerte Que Ayer is also available to stream or download on all digital music platforms.

Ivan Gonzalez