Mariachi El Bronx began as a detour that turned permanent. Formed in Los Angeles by members of the punk rock band The Bronx, the project started as a one off experiment in 2009, a way to channel a shared love of traditional Mexican forms of music. The self titled release grew into a parallel identity across three albums, each one sharpening their arrangements, harmonies, and restraint. Eleven years after their last release, the band has returned with IV. The time away is felt in the writing as these songs draw from lived experience, family, distance, and continuity, themes that surface in the lyrics.
Musically, the band approaches Mexican musical tradition with respect for form, leaning into the discipline of mariachi structure while letting their melodic instincts guide the songs. Trumpets carry bright, declarative lines, violins weave counter melodies, and the vihuela and guitarrón lock into a spirited rhythmic engine. The arrangements have great clarity, with each instrument given room to carry its role and tone. The real joy comes from hearing the full ensemble, where years of playing together across genres shine through.
After more than a decade away, Mariachi El Bronx’s IV marks a welcome return, the band settling back into their secondary identity with focus and vitality. It stands as another strong album, honoring their history and the depth of this project.
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