special guest: Mariachi El Bronx

"I don't want to make a mariachi record," guitarist Joby J. Ford said to vocalist Matt Caughthran when songwriting began for what would become the 3rd eponymously titled LP from Los Angeles' Mariachi El Bronx. The singer responded aptly with a pensive "I don't either," and a tone was seemingly set. This time around the band approached writing from a different direction. They dusted off old sequencers, synths, and an ARP and began to create soundscapes they would tack their music against - hammering and bending parts against each other in order to create a harmonious environment. Energized by this fusion of traditional melodies and modern ambience the band decided to follow the imaginary rabbit down its hole and embraced the sonic mash. Rather then make a mariachi record they aimed to create a mariachi inspired album.

Mariachi El Bronx spent two weeks with producer John Avila (Oingo Boingo) cutting the meat of the album before returning to LA to wrap up the loose ends. Certain tones echo through this 10 song LP - the feel of a band coming into their own, extending the proverbial middle finger to tradition (and backing it up 100%). Commentary of social unrest is prominent on tracks like “New Beat” and reflection on life experiences peppers the album with tracks like “Wildfires” and “High Tide.” “Nothing’s Changed” sees a surprise visit from DJ Bonebreak (X) on marimbas and harp virtuoso Willie Acuña (Mariachi Sol de Mexico) guests on “Raise The Dead.”