“A Latin Grammy-winning mariachi vocalist teaming up with a country and western band? It sounds wild, right? But as Mireya Ramos and the Poor Choices prove the two genres share a lot in style, culture, and sound.” – NPR’s World Cafe
For centuries, the US-Mexico border has been a vital focal point for cultural and political dynamics, serving as an intersection where diverse forces converge and interact. Mireya Ramos and the Poor Choices is a groundbreaking collaboration that explores the rich tapestry of musical styles and traditions born from both sides of this extensive 5,525-mile border. This project celebrates the shared elements between seemingly distinct genres such as ranchera, jarocho, bluegrass, jazz, and country. The group’s mission is to highlight that the US-Mexico border is far more than a physical divide—it is a vibrant and dynamic space where ideas and cultures flow freely, transcending barriers. Within this unique environment, numerous musical traditions have thrived, shaped by the challenges and complexities of this geographical and sociopolitical context. These traditions embody resilience, creativity, and the enduring spirit of connection that deserves to be brought to a wider audience.
Led by Grammy-winning vocalist and violinist Mireya Ramos, in collaboration with the versatile and genre-blurring Poor Choices, the ensemble is uniquely suited to bridge genres, generations, and cultures. Together, they craft a compelling musical dialogue that fuses ranchera soul with country storytelling. Mireya Ramos and the Poor Choices embodies the creativity and innovation that defines cross-border collaboration, illuminating the vibrant cultural landscape of this exceptional region.
Mireya is a vocalist, violinist, composer, and arranger, and the founder of Flor de Toloache, NYC’s first and only all-women mariachi band. She co-produced Sin Fronteras with Beau Bledsoe, founder/director of classical chamber Ensemble Iberica. The 10-song album features 25 musicians, including Latin Grammy winners Texmaniacs, Ensemble Iberica, and western band Slim Hanson and the Poor Choices. Though this community spans different genres, generations, and cultures, it coalesced around an album of original and traditional songs that meld influences from both sides of the border.
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