Brian Setzer Orchestra Show Preview: at the Gibson Amphitheater – Universal City, CA – December 17, 2011

Brian Setzer will be leading his jazz orchestra in a Christmas Extravaganza at the Gibson Amphitheater at Universal City Walk on December 17. Setzer has made a habit of touring around the holidays, and will be stopping in Los Angeles on his "Rockabilly Riot Tour," to bring us some swinging Christmas cheer.

 

 

Setzer became popular as the energetic front man and guitarist of the 80's rockabilly group The Stray Cats. In the 90's he formed a big band style jazz orchestra, fronted by him and his signature hollow body Gretsch guitar.  The Brian Setzer Orchestra has had many hits since then, most notably their upbeat rendition of Louis Prima's Jump Jive and Wail.  They have a large catalog of music, mixing swing staples with original jazz and rockabilly tunes.

They have also released a number of Christmas themed recordings.  They are masters of getting an audience in the Christmas spirit, with many holiday tours under their belt.  The large horn section adds an electrifying touch to holiday hits such as Blue Christmas, Jingle Bells, and Boogie Woogie Santa Claus.  Setzer has an energetic and young hearted stage presence, with a powerful voice reminiscent of Elvis or Buddy Holly.  He adds flair and fun to the live performance,  which leads to concerts that grab the audience's attention from start to finish. 

The Brian Setzer Orchestra has been busy lately, recently releasing a HD DVD entitled "It's Gonna Rock...'Cause That's What I Do."  The DVD features their headlining performance at the Montreal Jazz Festival in June of 2010.  You can also catch their song "Malaguena" in the animated film "Puss in Boots," which is currently in theaters.  They will be starting the US leg of the "Rockabilly Riot Tour" on December 1 in Detroit MI, before making their was to Los Angeles.
   

This rocking concert will be the musical highlight of the Holiday Season, and a night of fun and Christmas magic.  Expect to hear a mix of swinging takes on Christmas classics, upbeat big band hits, original Brian Setzer Orchestra tunes, and maybe even a Stray Cat song or two.


For more info check out Briansetzer.com

 

-Mindiana Jones-
Big Wheel Contributor

 

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