The Brian Setzer Orchestra

The Brian Setzer Orchestra formed in 1990 when guitarist Brian Setzer, who had previously played with the Stray Cats, decided to explore big band music. He brought together musicians like saxophonist Ed Calle and drummer Tony Pia to create a sound that mixed rockabilly with swing and jazz. Their self-titled 1994 album included the single '(The Legend Of) Johnny Kool,' which helped bring them wider attention.

Over the next decade, they released albums like 'Guitar Slinger' and 'The Dirty Boogie,' building a reputation for energetic live shows. Setzer's guitar work, Calle's saxophone lines, and Pia's drumming became familiar parts of their sound. Songs like 'Route 66' and 'Americano' showed their take on classic material, while original tracks like 'Haunted River' and 'As Long As I'm Singin'' kept their setlists fresh.

The orchestra has seen various members come and go over time, with bassist Bob Bogle playing from 1990 to 2004 and multi-instrumentalist John Jorgenson joining in 2006. They've maintained a steady presence on the road and in the studio, putting out holiday material like 'Jingle Bells' alongside their regular recordings. Their approach stays rooted in the rockabilly and swing styles Setzer favored from the beginning, without much interest in incorporating modern electronic elements.