So incase you guys couldn’t tell, I’m feeling the whole Latin music scene right now. But this band isn’t really from that realm. These guys can be labeled a hardcore punk band but their latest album features Mariachi music. Yes…Mariachi music. And yes, this is music where the guys are dress in those silver studded charro outfits with wide brimmed hats. Now if you take away all of the negative connotations or bad stereotypes that surround this genre you will hear the Mariachi music has so much to offer.
Throughout its history this kind of music has experimented with vocals, brass, wind, and percussion instruments. In my opinion it has influenced many bands in the Latin world that have crossed over to mainstream. For instance, Ozomatli, Selena (although she was more Tejano music), Cafe Tacuba, and let’s no forget Luis Miguel. Now if you know none of these people, please do yourself a favor and listen to them. I’ll get off of my soap box now and allow you to discover what Latin music really has to offer. And no, J.Lo is not one of them!!
As for right now, the band I am writing about cannot be considered traditional Mariachi music. Not even close. But I don’t think this is a bad thing. I enjoy their music because its adds some new flavor. Some innovation to genre that has remained untouched by other artists. I would argue that this band are showing people what Mariachi can do when you combine it with other kinds of genres. I believe in a world where all kinds of music can work well together, in harmony. So, hardcore punk Mariachi music doesn’t bother me. In fact, I’m going to advocate it from now on.
Oh no hear I am rambling on when I should be promoting this band like crazy. There name is The Bronx and they hail from LA. I don’t think their Mexican or even Latin. But whatever, they make pretty Mariachi much and I will blare their stuff when I’m cruising the barrios from now on. Course, this may not work in all situations. But whatever, I will stand behind this project and make sure everyone around me know who The Bronx are. You should do the same!
And if for some reason you hate this album listen to their “normal” stuff and you will hear it. The range, the talent, the art. So yay for The Bronx. Yay for Mariachi music. And finally yay for the people who know what Mariachi is all about.
