The alternative Tex-Mex band usually can be relied upon for providing a nice sunny, margarita-drenched soundtrack to any Sunday afternoon with their warm, Mariachi-inspired compositions. Hot Rail is consistent in it's average presentation of the band's unique aesthetic, but few songs actually rise above the somewhat bland countrified-alternative that makes up the bulk of these tracks. Alternating between traditional Mariachi arrangements, eclectic improvs, and more standard pop rock fare, the album does not seem to be as engaging as a few of their other albums, but is by no means a complete dud. Seems like a fair enough place to become situated with the band's unique musicality, just do not expect that much of a bite.