Matt Caughthran of The Bronx and Mariachi El Bronx joins music journalist Paul Cashmere for an in-depth conversation ahead of the band’s landmark Australian tour, where both identities will collide in a single, genre-bending live set.
In this interview, Matt reflects on the chaotic beginnings of The Bronx in early-2000s Los Angeles, the punk ethos that continues to define the band, and why songs like Heart Attack American, Shitty Future and Knife Man still resonate so deeply with audiences worldwide. He also revisits the philosophy behind Live Fast Die Young – not as a death wish, but as a call to live without hesitation.
The conversation explores the birth of Mariachi El Bronx, not as a novelty or side project, but as a deeply respected and creatively pure parallel band. Matt explains when the mariachi project became “real,” how it reshaped his identity as a vocalist and lyricist, and why releasing dual albums in 2007 changed the future of both bands forever.
Australian fans will appreciate Matt’s vivid memories of early shows at The Annandale Hotel and Brisbane’s The Zoo, the recording of Live At The Annandale, and why Australia remains one of the band’s most important territories. He also previews the upcoming tour, revealing how both bands will be seamlessly blended into one continuous set – something he describes as the craziest and most exciting thing they’ve ever attempted.
With new Mariachi El Bronx music on the way and legendary venues like Melbourne’s Forum on the itinerary, this interview is essential viewing for fans of punk rock, mariachi, and fearless musical evolution.
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