More than a decade into their storied career, Tijuana’s own Grupo Firme stand out for their innovative and, at times, unconventional takes on banda, norteño and other música mexicana styles. Their propensity for collaboration, both within and beyond their presumed genre bounds, makes each single drop or guest appearance worth hearing. That said, Evolución finds Eduin Caz’s ensemble less concerned with features and cameos, instead focused on showcasing the oft boisterous sound of the band itself. The lush arrangements of “Cero Sentimientos” almost mask the rage of its scorned protagonist, while “Quiere Llorar Y No Puede” sways to the oh-so-satisfied musings of its singer. There’s an arena-rock energy to “Luna”, its urgent lovelorn lyricism backed by big bluesy licks. Sinaloa songwriter Joss Favela lends his pen to a number of the tracks presented here, including “Alégale Al Umpire”, the bombastic yet tender “Hubiéramos” and the co-headlined highlight “La Vida Es Pa’Gozarla”.