Looking for live Norteño music that will keep your guests dancing till the sun comes up? Yelp is a surprisingly useful place to find and book great groups. If you want to make a reservation, go to yelp.com/biz/elmero-grupos-nortenos-san-diego on your phone or computer. The layout is easy to use, and you’ll find more than just contact information. You get to read those reviews that people argue about all the time, like love letters and even the odd heated critique.

Yelp isn’t just about the pretty five-star pictures; it shows you the real deal. Read guest anecdotes from people who loved how on time the arrivals were, musicians who really knew how to read the room, and crazy times when the audience sung louder than the speakers. You will see patterns. Was the band willing to play any songs that people asked for? Did they make that crazy uncle dance, or only the kids? Fans are quite honest in reviews.

You can’t quote costs in Yelp reviews, but you can get a sense of how open they are about their rates and bundles. Some people believe that the process goes as smoothly as a hot knife through butter. Some people could say that they had to wait a few days for a firm quote. Guessing games are not fun for anyone. Reading these carefully is worth it because what sounds like trivial talk could help you avoid a booking problem.

Let’s go on to the services. This isn’t a one-note performance. There will be live music at anything from home barbecues to formal quinceañeras. Some people even throw in a DJ set between live shows. Do you have a favorite modern banger or ranchera? The artists typically let the people in charge of the event choose some of the songs. One client said the band learned a family favorite song on the spot, which made the night even better.

Here’s another piece of information. The size of the group changes. Need a trio for a cozy get-together? No problem. Want a complete band with brass and accordion? You can send that request through the message option on Yelp. It’s like texting, but more honest.

Are you ready to book? Don’t just write a short note. Give explicit information, such as the date, start time, venue address, and the mood you’re going for. A lot of prior clients say that you should tell people about any weird things about the venue, including gates that stick or neighbors who are easily disturbed. Small things might make the difference between a seamless arrival and a frantic search for a place to park.

On one side, communication is bright and on the other, it sizzles. Find out what they need—do they need shade from the sun or a place to plug in their gear? Respond quickly so that the reservation doesn’t fall through. And check again to make sure it’s available before you plan your party.

Expect quick responses, but it’s not uncommon for things to slow down over the weekends. If you don’t get a response right away, it’s okay to follow up politely. Musicians are people too. Be careful with the tone of your messages. Their performance enthusiasm typically matches how quickly and nicely they respond.

Check every tiny detail once you book. Keeps you from having to fix things on the day of the event. People will remember the songs that made them dance, not the mistakes on the paperwork.

One honest review and straightforward message at a time, Yelp booking makes your dreams come true. Add some upbeat music and a team that listens? Your next party could make you famous in your community.