On this, Brian Setzer's fourth orchestra release, the former leader of The Stray Cats really takes you back in time, to pre-American involvement in World War Two, performing Glenn Miller's "Pennsylvania 6-5000" and "In The Mood," both with his trademark huge horn band complimenting his furious 1950's rock 'n roll guitar. Vavoom! is better than his three previous rock big band works because of the way he reinvents these classics. Adding touches of electronics, hip-hop, and lyrics to songs that were originally instrumental hits, Setzer creates almost wholly original works. In particular, "Pennsylvania 6-5000" catches fire immediately, opening the disc with the best thirty second opening of an album I've heard in years. Setzer keeps the fire burning in a way that would have sent Glenn Miller running for cover. Duke Ellington's "Caravan" is also given a new rock treatment. The only misfire is his version of "Mack The Knife." While there really isn't anything wrong with it the arrangement is way too close to Bobby Darin's famous version for Setzer to have bothered. Setzer's vocals, as usual, are perfect for his greaser big band style. He really could have been a lounge singer if he wanted to pursue that road.
If you like big horn bands, jazz, jump blues, and early 50s rock 'n roll you should sample all of The Brian Setzer Orchestra CDs.
I've loved Brian Setzer since Stray Cats. He's an excellent guitarist and a musical genius with a solid rockabilly style foundation. Who knew he could be so diverse? Vavoom is a great album that surpasses Cherry Poppin Daddies, Squirrel Nut Zippers and other new swing bands anyday, although the two I mentioned above are good in their own write, it would still be an incredible competition.
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