Don't Miss

Review: Brian Setzer Orchestra in Nashville, Indiana, Oct 5, 2023

By Brea Kuhn on October 6, 2023

If you’re a fan of rockabilly, swing, and rock ‘n’ roll, you don’t want to miss the Brian Setzer Rockabilly Riot tour. The legendary guitarist, singer, and songwriter is back on the road after a four-year hiatus, and he’s bringing his new solo album with him. I had the chance to catch his show at the Brown County Music Center on October 5th, and it was a blast.

**File Photo: Brian Setzer performs with his orchestra in the East Room of the White House. (Public Domain)**

Setzer took the stage with his international rockabilly band, featuring Chris D’Rozario on upright bass and Juan Laurios on drums. The trio delivered a high-energy performance that showcased Setzer’s virtuosity and versatility on the guitar, as well as his charismatic vocals and stage presence. The set list spanned Setzer’s 40-year career, from his early days with the Stray Cats to his solo hits and his work with the Brian Setzer Orchestra.

The show opened with “Rock Boys Rock”, , followed by “Double Talkin’ Baby”, one of the Stray Cats’ classics. The crowd went wild as Setzer ripped through some of his signature riffs and solos, while D’Rozario and Laurios kept the groove tight and steady.

The rest of the show was a mix of rockabilly favorites, such as “Rock This Town”, “Stray Cat Strut”, “Gene and Eddie”, and “Runaway Boys”, as well as some surprises, such as Setzer’s cover of “Georgia On My Mind”, which he dedicated to Ray Charles, and his rendition of “Girl On The Billboard”, a humorous country song that he said he always wanted to record. Setzer also played some instrumental tunes, such as “Sleepwalk” and “Train Kept a Rollin'”, that showcased his mastery of different styles and techniques.

The show ended with an encore of “Gene & Eddie” and “Rumble in Brighton”, two more Stray Cats staples that had everyone dancing and singing along. Setzer thanked the crowd for their support and said he was happy to be back on stage after such a long break. He also teased that he had more new music coming soon.

Brian Setzer is one of the most influential and innovative guitarists of our time, and his Rockabilly Riot tour is a testament to his passion and talent. If you have a chance to see him live, don’t miss it. You’ll be treated to a night of pure rock ‘n’ roll fun.