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I saw these guys at the
Roxy in Boston in 1998, the year the disc was released. This band swept me off my feet
and did not let me touch ground until the music stopped and I was left dripping with
sweat and wondering what the heck had just happened.
Brian Setzer’s vocals
are husky and passionate with remarkable range. And they’re backed by a big band sound,
rich with swingin’ horns and spankin’ bass.
The disc opens with “This
Cat’s on a Hot Tin Roof,” and the pace continues with “The Dirty Boogie,” and “Jump, Jive
and Wail,” all guaranteed to have you tapping your feet. “Rock this Town,” from
Setzer’s days with the Stray Cats, swings, and is followed by a sexy rendition of “Since
I Don’t Have You.”
A sultry version of the classic, “Sleepwalk,” features
an amazing guitar solo by Setzer along with some incredible horn stylings. “Let’s Live
it Up,” is an upbeat piece, laced with a rockin’ trumpet solo.
“You’re the
Boss” is a synergistic duet between Setzer and guest vocalist, Gwen Stefani, singer and
songwriter for the band No Doubt.
Though my least favorite track on the
disc, “Hollywood Nocturne,” has effects that make the vocals sound canned, it bounces
back nicely with a stunning trumpet solo.
“As Long as I’m Singing” rounds
the disc off with a rollicking beat and some lovely scat stylings.
This is
a CD packed with such incredible talent, it is certain to please a wide variety of
listeners.
