Stray Cats
Stray Cats: The Rockabilly Revivalists
In the bustling streets of New York City in the late 1970s, a trio of young musicians emerged from the underground rockabilly scene. Their infectious energy, undeniable talent, and rebellious style would ignite a revival of the genre and leave an enduring mark on music history.
Brian Setzer, a guitar virtuoso with a penchant for vintage rock and roll, joined forces with bassist Lee Rocker and drummer Slim Jim Phantom to form The Stray Cats. Their name, a nod to their shared love of cats, hinted at both their carefree spirit and their determination to carve their own path.
Early Success and Challenges
The Stray Cats' debut album, "Stray Cats," released in 1981, was an instant sensation. Their signature sound, a blend of classic rockabilly with a modern twist, captured the attention of both critics and fans. The album's lead single, "Stray Cat Strut," became an anthem for the burgeoning rockabilly revival.
However, their success came with its share of challenges. The band's flamboyant performances and outspoken personalities often drew the ire of conservative critics who accused them of being too excessive. They also faced accusations of commercializing rockabilly, a genre that had long been marginalized.
Controversies and Scandals
The Stray Cats' rebellious streak often found them at the center of controversy. Rocker's arrest for possession of marijuana in 1982 cast a shadow over the band's reputation. Setzer's alleged relationship with a minor in 1984 further fueled the media frenzy surrounding the band.
Despite the scandals, the Stray Cats refused to be silenced. Their music continued to resonate with audiences, and they remained a force to be reckoned with on the concert circuit.
Discography
The Stray Cats released six studio albums during their initial run from 1981 to 1990:
* Stray Cats (1981)
* Built for Speed (1982)
* Rant n' Rave with the Stray Cats (1983)
* Blast Off! (1989)
* Let's Go Faster! (1990)
Their music showcased their mastery of the rockabilly genre, as well as their ability to incorporate elements of swing, jazz, and even surf rock into their sound.
Members
* Brian Setzer (Guitar, Vocals)
* Lee Rocker (Bass, Vocals)
* Slim Jim Phantom (Drums, Vocals)
Later Years and Legacy
The Stray Cats disbanded in 1990, but their legacy lived on. Setzer went on to form the Brian Setzer Orchestra, a swing revival band that achieved mainstream success. Rocker released a number of solo albums and continued to perform with his own band. Phantom remained active in the music industry, playing with various artists and forming his own groups.
In 2004, the Stray Cats reunited for a world tour and released a new album, "Rumble in Brighton," in 2019. Their music continues to inspire and delight fans of rockabilly, rock and roll, and beyond.
In the bustling streets of New York City in the late 1970s, a trio of young musicians emerged from the underground rockabilly scene. Their infectious energy, undeniable talent, and rebellious style would ignite a revival of the genre and leave an enduring mark on music history.
Brian Setzer, a guitar virtuoso with a penchant for vintage rock and roll, joined forces with bassist Lee Rocker and drummer Slim Jim Phantom to form The Stray Cats. Their name, a nod to their shared love of cats, hinted at both their carefree spirit and their determination to carve their own path.
Early Success and Challenges
The Stray Cats' debut album, "Stray Cats," released in 1981, was an instant sensation. Their signature sound, a blend of classic rockabilly with a modern twist, captured the attention of both critics and fans. The album's lead single, "Stray Cat Strut," became an anthem for the burgeoning rockabilly revival.
However, their success came with its share of challenges. The band's flamboyant performances and outspoken personalities often drew the ire of conservative critics who accused them of being too excessive. They also faced accusations of commercializing rockabilly, a genre that had long been marginalized.
Controversies and Scandals
The Stray Cats' rebellious streak often found them at the center of controversy. Rocker's arrest for possession of marijuana in 1982 cast a shadow over the band's reputation. Setzer's alleged relationship with a minor in 1984 further fueled the media frenzy surrounding the band.
Despite the scandals, the Stray Cats refused to be silenced. Their music continued to resonate with audiences, and they remained a force to be reckoned with on the concert circuit.
Discography
The Stray Cats released six studio albums during their initial run from 1981 to 1990:
* Stray Cats (1981)
* Built for Speed (1982)
* Rant n' Rave with the Stray Cats (1983)
* Blast Off! (1989)
* Let's Go Faster! (1990)
Their music showcased their mastery of the rockabilly genre, as well as their ability to incorporate elements of swing, jazz, and even surf rock into their sound.
Members
* Brian Setzer (Guitar, Vocals)
* Lee Rocker (Bass, Vocals)
* Slim Jim Phantom (Drums, Vocals)
Later Years and Legacy
The Stray Cats disbanded in 1990, but their legacy lived on. Setzer went on to form the Brian Setzer Orchestra, a swing revival band that achieved mainstream success. Rocker released a number of solo albums and continued to perform with his own band. Phantom remained active in the music industry, playing with various artists and forming his own groups.
In 2004, the Stray Cats reunited for a world tour and released a new album, "Rumble in Brighton," in 2019. Their music continues to inspire and delight fans of rockabilly, rock and roll, and beyond.