While not as dramatic as money falling from the sky, a free Los Lobos concert certainly constitutes a gift to local music lovers. The venerable band from East L.A. embodies a dizzying array of styles. On a good night, David Hidalgo, Louie Perez, and company are a wonder to behold as they glide between rock and roll, roots, blues, soul, experimental, Tex Mex, and traditional Mexican folk. Part of Los Lobos' magic stems from the fact that the band approaches American and Mexican music as insiders and outsiders. Early on, for example, the band played Mexican folk incorrectly, but also got fired from a gig for playing a Cream cover too loud. On its latest album, "The Town and the City," the band addresses immigration at the personal level for its most heartfelt, personal work to date.

Los Lobos play with the White Devils and Tumbao Thursday, July 10, 5:30 p.m. at the Riverside Festival Site, Court & Exchange streets. Free. 428-6697.