I was online a couple of months back looking for a guitar case on the Gretsch Guitar website. While I was there I noticed a link to Brian Setzer’s site. I clicked over to check it out and, as luck would have it, I landed there about 10 minutes before tickets were going on sale for his 50th Birthday party concert with The Stray Cats. This was going to be their only US appearance in 2009 and even though it was in Minneapolis, Minnesota—I was going. I have been a fan of The Stray Cats since I first heard “Rock This Town” and “Stray Cat Strut” back in 1982 but have never seen them live. Back then I was already listening to Gene Vincent and Eddie Cochran, so to me, the Stray Cats were just a punked-out, wilder version of already great rock-a-billy music.

Last Friday night they had the place rocking. I have to tell you that they tore the Fine Line Music Cafe apart. It was just amazing to me, the intensity level and sound all from an upright base, a tiny drum kit and that Gretsch guitar. I thought I traveled far, being from New Hampshire, but there were fans from Sweden, Japan, Australia and from all over the country. Very loyal, friendly and colorful fans for sure.

There’ll be no more shows in the US this year but lets hope they hit the road in 2010, and if you get a chance, check them out.