Mariachi El Bronx : 'Cell Mates'
Released: 10th August 2009
Label: Wichita Recordings
Let's pretend for a minute that you're The Bronx. You've produced three self titled albums, countless singles and EPs and have pretty much cornered the marked in straight up Punk music. So what now? Well you release a mariachi album of course....
As crazy as it sounds, that is exactly what the Punk heroes have done, and to surprisingly impressive effect. A world away from chugging guitars and heavy drum beats, this trumpet filled extravaganza brings a flavour of Mexico to popular music. Complete with violins and percussion, the band's experiment extends all the way to a temporary name change and a full gig list. Single “Cell Mates” provides an example of what to expect, with magnificent trumpet melodies and tuneful violins leading the way beautifully.
It would be easy to think from the description that the band would make a decidedly half – arsed attempt at such a genre, yet everything is authentic and expertly done. Acoustic guitars strum out the basis of a melody, textured by liberal layers of string and brass for good measure. The melody is massaged by gentle percussion that adds to the jaunty, lively feel. A wonderfully thought out vocal melody, complete with vocal harmonies, finishes the ensemble perfectly, maintaining authenticity to the very end.
Despite such a drastic change of direction, “Cell Mates” is a fantastically fresh and lively track that brings a genre long take for granted back to the forefront of popular music. And with a Saturday slot at Reading Festival already on the cards, Mariachi El Bronx will be sure to add a Mexican flavour to our dreary English summer.
Words: Dan Grose
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