Description
Stray Cats – 40 – Vinyl Record
Stray Cats’ 40 (2019) is the ninth studio album by the iconic American rockabilly trio, released to celebrate their 40th anniversary as a band. After a 26-year break from recording new material, the Stray Cats—Brian Setzer (vocals/guitar), Lee Rocker (bass), and Slim Jim Phantom (drums)—returned with 40, bringing back their signature blend of rockabilly, rock and roll, and punk energy that made them stars in the early 1980s. The album was met with excitement by longtime fans and received positive reviews for its ability to stay true to the classic Stray Cats sound while feeling fresh and energetic.
40 is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Stray Cats’ rockabilly revival, showcasing their ability to make music that feels timeless yet rooted in the classic sounds of the 1950s.
40 stays faithful to the Stray Cats’ rockabilly roots, characterized by Brian Setzer’s twangy, reverb-heavy guitar, Lee Rocker’s slap-back upright bass, and Slim Jim Phantom’s minimalist, stand-up drumming. The album is full of infectious, uptempo tracks that evoke the 1950s rock and roll spirit, with nods to Elvis Presley, Gene Vincent, and Eddie Cochran.
The production on 40 is crisp and modern, but it retains the vintage rockabilly sound that defines the Stray Cats’ music. The album feels like a throwback to the 1950s while being polished enough to fit into contemporary rock playlists, allowing the band to reach both longtime fans and new listeners. Despite their retro sound, the Stray Cats have always infused their music with the attitude and energy of punk rock. On 40, this edge is still present, with the band delivering high-energy performances that show they haven’t lost any of their raw, rebellious spirit.
Key Tracks
“Cat Fight (Over a Dog Like Me)”: The opening track is a perfect example of the classic Stray Cats sound. It’s fast, energetic, and features Setzer’s signature rockabilly guitar riffs and a catchy chorus. The song’s playful lyrics and infectious energy make it a standout and set the tone for the album.
“Rock It Off”: Another energetic rockabilly anthem, “Rock It Off” is driven by Rocker’s thumping upright bass and Setzer’s fiery guitar playing. The song has a carefree, party-like vibe, harking back to the dance halls and sock hops of the 1950s, making it a quintessential Stray Cats track.
“Cry Danger”: This song brings a slightly darker, more mysterious tone to the album, with Setzer’s guitar playing taking on a moody, bluesy edge. The song’s brooding vibe contrasts with the more upbeat tracks, showing the band’s versatility within the rockabilly genre.
“I Attract Trouble”: One of the album’s catchiest tracks, “I Attract Trouble” features fun lyrics, a swaggering rock and roll rhythm, and Setzer’s fiery guitar work. The song is fast-paced, lighthearted, and embodies the cheeky, rebellious spirit that has always defined the Stray Cats.
“When Nothing’s Going Right”: This track slows things down, offering a more emotional, reflective moment on the album. The song is a smooth, heartfelt ballad with bluesy guitar licks, highlighting Setzer’s ability to bring emotional depth to his music.
As with much of the Stray Cats’ music, the lyrics on 40 focus on classic rock and roll themes like fun, romance, and a bit of rebellion. Songs like “Cat Fight (Over a Dog Like Me)” and “I Attract Trouble” playfully explore themes of romantic rivalry and troublemaking, staying true to the band’s tongue-in-cheek, swaggering persona. There’s a sense of nostalgia throughout the album, with the band celebrating the sounds and style of the 1950s. Tracks like “Rock It Off” and “Mean Pickin’ Mama” evoke the dance halls, fast cars, and rebellious spirit of the rock and roll era, reminding listeners why the Stray Cats fell in love with this style of music in the first place. Given that the album was released to mark the band’s 40th anniversary, there’s also an underlying theme of resilience and enduring passion for music. Songs like “When Nothing’s Going Right” reflect the ups and downs of life and love, but with a sense of perseverance and optimism that matches the band’s long career.
Setzer’s guitar playing is as sharp as ever on 40. His ability to channel vintage rockabilly tones while delivering high-energy, intricate solos is on full display. Songs like “Cat Fight” and “Cry Danger” feature his signature Gretsch guitar sound, blending reverb, slap-back echo, and virtuoso picking, making it clear why he’s regarded as one of the greatest rockabilly guitarists. Rocker’s slap-back upright bass is a defining element of the Stray Cats’ sound, and it’s front and center on 40. His basslines drive the rhythm of the songs, creating a solid backbone for the band’s rockabilly grooves, especially on tracks like “Rock It Off” and “I Attract Trouble.” Phantom’s minimalist drumming is a crucial part of the Stray Cats’ stripped-down sound. He plays standing up, using a simple kit, but his rhythms are tight and energetic, perfectly complementing Setzer’s guitar and Rocker’s bass. His drumming is light and fast, propelling the album forward with its infectious energy.
40 was a highly anticipated comeback for the Stray Cats, as it marked their first studio album in over two decades. The album was well-received by both fans and critics, with many praising the band for staying true to their roots while still sounding fresh. The release celebrated the band’s legacy as the pioneers of the rockabilly revival and proved that they were still a vital force in rock and roll. The Stray Cats have been instrumental in keeping the rockabilly genre alive and relevant over the decades. With 40, they once again demonstrated how their music can resonate across generations, bridging the gap between the original rock and roll era and modern rockabilly fans. The Stray Cats’ unique blend of rockabilly, rock and roll, and punk energy has influenced countless bands, from rockabilly acts like Reverend Horton Heat to punk bands that incorporate retro sounds, such as The Living End. 40 serves as a reminder of their lasting impact on both genres.
40 by Stray Cats is a triumphant return for the legendary rockabilly trio, celebrating their 40th anniversary with a fresh yet familiar sound. The album blends classic rockabilly, rock and roll, and punk energy, with Brian Setzer’s virtuosic guitar playing, Lee Rocker’s thumping bass, and Slim Jim Phantom’s tight drumming driving the high-energy, vintage-inspired tracks. With its playful lyrics, catchy melodies, and throwback vibes, 40 is a fitting tribute to the band’s legacy and a reminder of their lasting influence on both rockabilly and punk music.
Gatefold sleeve. Includes a printed inner sleeve and a download card.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Cat Fight (Over A Dog Like Me)
Rock It Off
I’ve Got Love If You Want It
Cry Danger
I Attract Trouble
Three Time’s A Charm
That’s Messed Up
When Nothing’s Going Right
Desperado
Mean Pickin’ Mama
I’ll Be Looking Out For You
Devil Train
