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Set to Play Amoeba Music with New Album
February 8th, 2026 by Kevin Gomez
Hardcore music and mariachi both have a long, deep-rooted history in Los Angeles. It’s not very often that the two genres collide, especially within the same band and fanbase, but that’s exactly what makes Los Angeles’ Mariachi El Bronx so unique and special.
Their story began in 2002 when vocalist Matt Caughthran joined guitarist Joby J. Ford to form The Bronx, a hardcore punk band.
They’ve undergone few lineup changes over the years before settling on second guitarist Ken Horne, bassist Brad Magers, and the exceptionally talented Joey Castillo on drums. Castillo has become something of a session drummer having played with icons like Circle Jerks and Queens of the Stone Age.
The band has put out six studio albums over the years, including 2021’s “The Bronx VI.” They’ve played countless festivals over the years, including Warped Tour, Riot Fest, Camp Punksylvania, and Punk in the Park.
However, in 2007 Caughthran began expressing an interest in recording a mariachi album in interviews. The result was 2009’s “Mariachi El Bronx” (much like The Bronx, all of their albums are self-titled). If critics thought they were initially joking or even skeptical, all doubts were put to rest after a single listen.
For their records, the band takes on additional members including guitarrón Mexicano (Mexican guitar) players, violinists, and horns. Mariachi El Bronx take this side of their music very seriously, showing up in full mariachi ensemble for their live performances.
Caughthran has said that Mariachi El Bronx “was something that was a part of us that we didn’t really realize. I mean, being from Los Angeles and, you know, growing up and surrounded by Mexican culture, it just kind of happened.” He was also quoted as saying this was the easiest and most fun they’ve ever had recording an album.
Their newest album, “Mariachi El Bronx IV,” will drop February 13th and the band says it will capture “warriors, and lovers – characters that channel the specific weight of being alive right now.” A recent press release from the band says they continue to “honor the rich Hispanic music and culture woven into the fabric of Los Angeles.”
Fans will get a special opportunity to catch Mariachi El Bronx on February 17th for an in-store performance and signing at the world-famous Amoeba Music in Los Angeles.
Before that, they have two local-ish dates: February 13th at M-Theory Music in San Diego, and in Tijuana at the famed Black Box on February 14th. So, grab your señorita and your passport and head for the border for a romantic Valentine’s evening.
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