"Tormenta del Sur" begins ominously with a bass drum roll and a contrabass pulse, which is followed by a rhythmic motive in the celli, and subsequently stated in all of the strings. This motive becomes more frantic, and eventually explodes into a texture in the treble instruments. A melody is introduced under this texture in the bass instruments. The rhythmic motive then becomes accompaniment for the main theme of the first section, which is stated in the violins and answered by the celli. After several more statements of this theme, this section builds to a grand climax, with repeated notes in the violins, and a repeated a-minor chord in the brass. The repeated note fades away into a polyrhythmic texture with a bass pizzicato, percussion, and staccato woodwinds. The woodwinds gradually become legato and pianissimo, and the opening bass motive is then stated in a more lyrical fashion by the celli. A soft string tremolo follows, and the opening bass pulse reappears, introducing a gradual and steady ascent to the final climax.
— N.G.

This work... is characteristic of the purest American style of the composer, who creates modern music without disdaining rhythm and melody, as well as a very peculiar lyricism.
— El Día, Mexico City

The composition in only one movement, allows us to feel its brilliance and its charm and at the same time its power...
— Nuestro Pais, Mexico City