Back catalogue: 50s/60s

Review: Squirrel Nut Zippers' third studio album, Perennial Favorites, receives its first vinyl reissue since its original 1998 release, bringing back the infectious energy and eclectic blend of styles that characterized the neo-swing movement. What sets the band apart from its contemporaries is its ability to capture the genuine spirit of hot jazz, acknowledging the darker undertones and genuine hedonism of the era. Led by charismatic vocals and backed by a tight ensemble, the album delivers a mix of catchy hooks and loose-limbed glee. Tracks like 'Suits are Picking Up the Bill' and 'Fat Cat Keeps Getting Fatter display the band's knack for solid hooks and playful arrangements, while 'Ghost of Stephen Foster' and 'That Fascinating Thing' hint at the subtext that informed swing and hot jazz. Perennial Favorites stands out as a genuine and joyous celebration of the genre. The album effortlessly dabbles in various styles, from big-band swing to jazz crooning to klezmer, all while maintaining a sense of musical accomplishment and respect for history.