Guitar Slinger is the second studio album by the American swing revival band The Brian Setzer Orchestra. It was originally released in Japan in 1995, with a resequenced version released internationally in 1996. The album continues the band's fusion of big band swing and rockabilly, featuring a mix of original compositions and cover songs. Notable tracks include "Hoodoo Voodoo Doll" and a rendition of Gene Pitney's "Town Without Pity." Guitar Slinger further established the Brian Setzer Orchestra’s role in the 1990s swing revival movement.
Critical reception Guitar Slinger received generally positive reviews from music critics. Reviewers praised the album's energy, musicianship, and creative arrangements. Brian Setzer’s guitar performance was frequently highlighted, as was the band’s tight brass and rhythm sections. Some critics noted the album’s improved cohesion and production compared to their debut.
AllMusic awarded the album 4 out of 5 stars, describing it as “a bold and brassy leap forward” and “a spirited showcase for Setzer’s dual love of vintage rock and swing.” Entertainment Weekly praised the album’s “timeless party vibe” and “expert musicianship,” though some reviews suggested the novelty of the swing revival genre might limit broader appeal.
Despite modest commercial performance in the U.S. at the time of release, Guitar Slinger contributed to the foundation that would lead to the Brian Setzer Orchestra’s mainstream breakthrough with The Dirty Boogie in 1998.
Track listing
International version
Japanese version
Personnel Brian Setzer - guitar, vocals Steve Fowler - 2nd alto saxophone Patrick Williams - arranger, orchestration Michael Acosta - tenor saxophone Tom Bahler - backing vocals Alexandra Brown - backing vocals Sal Cracchiolo - trumpet Bernie Dresel - drums Dan Fornero - trumpet Ray Hermann - multi-instruments Dan Higgins - multi-instruments Mark Jones - trombone, orchestration Andy Martin - multi-instruments George McMullen - trombone Bob Parr - bass Don Roberts - baritone saxophone Bennett Salvay - arranger, orchestration Bob Sandman - tenor saxophone Carmen Twillie - backing vocals Michael Vlatkovitch - trombone Stan Watkins - trumpet Wayne Bergeron - multi-instruments Roger Burn - piano, vibraphone Robbie Hioki - tuba, bass trombone George Shelby - clarinet, 1st alto saxophone Charlie Biggs - trumpet Technical Allen Sides - recording, mixing Nick Egan - art direction Michele Laurita - cover photography
Notes