A collaboration with Ensemble Iberica
Sin Fronteras (Without Borders) is a project about borders made by musicians without borders.
Project Objectives: For centuries, the U.S./Mexico border has been a significant focal point for cultural and political dynamics, serving as an intersection where these multifaceted forces converge and interact. Sin Fronteras represents a substantial musical initiative that delves into the diverse tapestry of music styles and traditions originating from both sides of the extensive 5,525-mile border. This comprehensive project aims to highlight the shared elements among these distinct musical genres, including Tex-Mex, Ranchera, Jarocho, Gospel, Jazz, and Country.
Breaking Barriers: Our primary objective is to illustrate that the US/Mexico border is not solely a fixed and impermeable divide but rather a dynamic and vibrant space where ideas and culture flow freely, transcending the physical barriers that exist. It is within this dynamic environment that numerous vibrant musical traditions have thrived, spurred on by the challenges and struggles inherent to this unique geographical and sociopolitical context. However, this profound and resilient interplay often remains less known to broader audiences.
Visibility and Recognition: Ensemble Ibérica has performed Sin Fronteras on nationally recognized stages, including Lincoln Center in New York City as part of Globalfest, BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival, FreshGrass in North Adams, and The Freight in Berkeley, demonstrating the program’s broad appeal and its resonance with diverse audiences across major folk, roots, and cultural music platforms.
Album Production: Mireya Ramos (founder/director of Flor de Toloache) and Beau Bledsoe (founder/director of Ensemble Iberica) have produced a full-length album of original compositions and popular songs that meld influences from both sides of the border. The recording was released on September 15, 2023, and features twenty-five musicians from multiple genres in the U.S. and Mexico.
“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 in today’s mini-concert, the two genres share a lot in style, culture and sound.”
– NPR’s World Cafe [link)
“In the face of these gorgeous songs, the things that seemingly divide our two countries feel trivial — they can and will be transcended by something far greater.”
– Adobe and Teardrops [link)
“Her breathtaking vocals swell and billow alongside the band’s uplifting instruments, lending her anguish an exquisite splendor that pierces the heart.”
– Grimey Goods (on “Regressa Ya”) [link)
“the song effortlessly blends Nashville country and rancheras, raising the stakes with a gospel choir and KCMO jazz. Its lyrics about losing a part of you when a loved one leaves is emotionally supercharged by Ramos’ breathtaking vocal performance, giving us a chill-inducing moment.”
– Remezcla (on “Regressa Ya”) [link)
“It’s a song that makes you want to take a shot of tequila, yet also find a line-dancing partner.
– RIFF Magazine (on “Regressa Ya”) [link)
“Mireya Ramos made a good decision when she allied with The Poor Choices… The cross-cultural results are rewarding. Fresh interpretations of classic material ranging from ‘Regresa Ya’ to ‘There Stands the Glass’ bridge the distances between Mexico City, Nashville, New York and San Juan.”
– KCUR (NPR Kansas City) [link)