Mariachi El Bronx II

In many ways, Mariachi El Bronx are the Bruce Banner to the Bronx’s Incredible Hulk. In the former guise they are tender, delicate and happy to accept many of life’s sorrows, while in the latter (which is the five-piece’s “day job”) they’re a veritable smash-mouth, subtle as a sledgehammer monster. Mariachi El Bronx is their second album in their more tunesome Mexican music-inspired incarnation, and it’s an absolute riot to listen to. ‘Fallen’ is a swaying, happy/sad tequila-infused lament that’s crooned without a hint of irony by frontman Matt Caughthran, ‘Norteno Lights’ is a pure party song Latino style, and the instrumental title track is packed full of dancing strings and diabolically good horns. Despite being more accustomed to singing like he’s gargling glass for fun, the band’s leader especially puts in an excellent performance throughout the 12 tracks and he helps make this one of the must-buys of the year.