Chicago knows the power of mariachi. The city has nurtured several acclaimed mariachi ensembles, including Mariachi Herencia de México, who’ve become a national success story. Assembled by the Mariachi Heritage Foundation in 2016, the group have released five albums and received two Latin Grammy nominations. Mariachi Herencia de México hew faithfully to many mariachi traditions, but they’re not merely cultural preservationists. Their current Nueva Generación tour clearly displays their ability to push the envelope: they infuse their classic mariachi vibes with salsa, Latin soul, and jazz influences, and they embrace songs from adjacent Latine cultures (in October, for instance, they released their take on beloved Puerto Rican ballad “Preciosa”). These musical explorations also give a fresh sheen to their original compositions and pop-forward interpretations of mariachi classics.
Mariachi Herencia de México’s 14 members (who range in age from 18 to 32) honor the traditional mariachi configuration of brass, vihuela, and guitarrón, and many members also sing, conveying strong emotion with their soaring vocals. Their virtuosic playing and charming, flamboyant showmanship have helped make Mariachi Herencia de México’s annual Christmas shows a nascent Chicago tradition, and their powerful performances offer a fabulous way to celebrate and share the joy of the season.
Mariachi Herencia de México Sun 12/15, 3 PM, Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, $40, all ages
Mariachi Herencia de México Fri 12/20, 7 PM, Sat 12/21, 2, 5, and 8 PM, Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall, Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln, $40, $38 members, all ages