Mariachi El Bronx - Mariachi El Bronx II

Mariachi El Bronx - Mariachi El Bronx II
Genre: Mariachi/World Music
Rating: 7/10

When Los Angeles hardcore punk idols the Bronx announced the formation of their alter ego Mariachi El Bronx back in 2007 most people were confused. The Bronx have been consistently praised  for their own brand of spikey intelligent punk with each of their three eponymous albums garnering critical claim across the board in the alternative music press. So what in god's name would inspire a move from punk rock to mexican folk music? Mariachi El Bronx II is the bands second LP under their Mariachi moniker and pretty much picks up where the bands first eponymous album left off. The whole album is lavishly orchestrated with the traditional instruments of the genre. Trumpets, violins and a huge range of different spanish guitars as well as accordians ensure that the record is not merely a novelty act for the Bronx but serious business.

The music on offer here is very similar to Mariachi El Bronx's debut and sticks to the strict rules of the mariachi style the only notable difference is the level to which they execute it. Whilst the debut was hindered with the occasional track sounding almost caricature like the band have avoided this elegantly with their new effort. Many of the themes from the first album repeat themselves with romance, crime and punishment and redemption being central to the records poignancy. Matt Caughtrain also proves as adept with singing soulfully and melodically as he is at his ferocious peaks on Bronx records. Highlights include the sombre "Fallen" that see's Matt work with a chorus and a rather bleaker and calmer backing and the beautifully orchestrated "Everything Dies" that sees harp and a vast range of spanish guitars that switch tempos into a flamenco-esque stomp. Other highlights include opener "48 Roses" with its ostentatious over the top violin sweeps. Whilst the record is very adept in quality and diverse in tone the only draw back is that it isn't as interesting as other types of music. The strict rules and classical nature of the music limits experimentation and variation which means if your not in the mood for it you will probably leave it gathering dust. Still that aside the dusty mexican sounds are perfect for a hot summers day and whilst Mariachi may not be everyones cup of tea the Bronx should be praised for not only their skill at performing such a contrasting genre so well but also their bravery for defying peoples expectations of them.

Overall Mariachi El Bronx II is a very accomplished album by a band who clearly have no limitations. Whilst the mexican vibe may be dismissed as a silly gimmick by many the bands skill in the field makes the album a very interesting and rewarding listen that surpasses its predecessor.

Download: "48 Roses" "Everything Dies"