The Jets Bolt Of Lightning (CD)

(Krypton Records) 18 tracks

Often copied but rarely equaled, the Jets have remained one of the preeminent bands of the rockabilly revival since the dawn of the post-punk era in the early 1980s. The very talented Cotton brothers Bob, Ray and Tony have made the most of their abilities by mastering their chosen instrument: Double Bass, Guitar and Drums. There are two main aspects that set them apart from most other bands of a similar genre: their captivating live stage shows and their three-part harmonies that blend with ease and are often heard in singing siblings. This album is a blend of styles inspired by rockabilly, rock 'n' roll and doo wop, offering a variety of tempos and creative arrangements. There are 18 tracks in total, 14 of which are original compositions by guitarist Ray Cotton. At least six tracks from this album are regularly featured in their live performances. Favorite tracks include the title track “Bolt of Lightning”, “Plenty of Love” for the superb guitar playing, “Good Morning Little School Girl” for the interesting bass line and of course the solid backbone of the drums in one of the greatest rockabilly anthems of all time, “Train Kept a Rollin”. If you like British rockabilly, then you undoubtedly already own an album by the Jets and should get all of their recordings. Stuart Bates.