While a one-off mariachi album by a Los Angeles hardcore-punk band might invoke a certain kneejerk novelty vibe, what to make of a second Mariachi album by that very same Los Angeles hardcore-punk band? In the case of Mariachi El Bronx (the, you guessed it, Mariachi alter ego of Cali punks, the Bronx), it’s a sincere tribute to a genre that first sprang up in Western Mexico, and that these gringos say is “every bit as much of a soundtrack to southern California as punk.”

Mariachi El Bronx dabbles in Norteño, Bolero and Cumbia styles here, and recruits excellent players to get them across, pointing to a deep appreciation for the music, even if it’s their gimmicky back story that earns them a spot playing it for Jay Leno on national television — something that most traditional Mariachi bands never get a chance to do.

But if you can get past the cultural appropriation, it’s worth noting that what these guys are doing certainly feels authentic, appears to come from a place of real respect and has earned the co-sign of members and collaborators of Los Lobos, Circle Jerks, Oingo Boingo, Mad Caddies and the Beastie Boys. From… read more »