Press

Houston Press

It’s been over a decade since Hot Club of Cowtown formed and became an instant hit with fans of country and swing. Since forming in 1997, Hot Club has been one of the most consistent and reliable acts in the broad pantheon of Texas music, although they did go their separate ways for almost three years beginning in 2005. With a part Bob Wills, part Django Rinehardt sound, the Club is driven by magnetic front woman and fiddler Elana James. James is so good at what she does, she became the first woman ever to play in Bob Dylan’s road band. But she’s not the only ace in this super-tight three-piece. Guitarist Whit Smith is a master of his instrument and has a huge grasp of jazz technique he translates into Hot Club’s swinging tunes. Bassist Jake Erwin provides the glue in this drumless band, laying down wide, thumping beats that drive the tunes and allow James and Smith to soar. Since reforming in 2008, the band has recently released its first studio album since 2002, Wishful Thinking. Hot Club has wowed audiences all over the world, and it’s good to have them back in their old Continental haunt. Let the good times roll – and swing.