Mariachi Divas

This all-female mariachi troupe got a big boost when Hillary Clinton featured them at a California rally during the 2008 election. But that's not the only reason to listen to this remarkable act: as part of the bargain, you get string parts that stretch out for miles, a singer who could double as Gloria Estefan (in her Spanish-singing alter-ego) and the band's deft romantic touch. And the singers aren't afraid to hit a note, work the vibrato shamelessly, and then hold it until reality seems to shift slightly. Hold onto your giant hat.