The Making Of Stray Cats’ Track “Rev It Up And Go.”

December 2, 2024

The Making of Stray Cats’ Rev It Up And Go”: A Study in Rockabilly Revivalism

In the pantheon of rockabilly revival, few tracks encapsulate the era’s spirit and energy as vividly as the Stray Cats’ Rev It Up And Go.” Released in 1983 as part of their album *Rant N’ Rave with the Stray Cats*, the song is emblematic of a band that deftly bridged the gap between the polished sound of modern rock and the raw, unrefined edges of vintage rockabilly. With its frenetic rhythms, twangy guitar riffs, and charismatic vocal delivery by Brian Setzer, Rev It Up And Go” is not merely an homage to a bygone era; it is a testament to the enduring allure of rock’s primal roots.

The genesis of Rev It Up And Go” can be traced to the collaborative synergy of Setzer, drummer Slim Jim Phantom, and bassist Lee Rocker. In a period when punk and new wave were dominating the charts, the Stray Cats carved a niche that celebrated the past while unapologetically invigorating it. Setzer’s songwriting shines through Rev It Up And Go,” revealing a keen understanding of the genre’s archetypes fused with a contemporary twist. The juxtaposition of lyrical buoyancy with rockabilly’s hallmark themes of rebellion and youthful exuberance creates an invigorating sonic cocktail, encouraging listeners to engage in the ritual of driving fast and living free.

Musically, Rev It Up And Go” employs classic elements of rockabillymost notably, the slap bass technique deployed by Rocker, which is reminiscent of the style championed by legends like Carl Perkins. The production, helmed by the band alongside veteran producer Dave Edmunds, injects a modern polish without sacrificing the rawness that defines the genre. The result is a track that exudes the frenetic energy of a late-night joyride, blurred headlights streaking past the horizon, encapsulating the very essence of youth’s fleeting moments.

Lyrically, Setzer draws upon vivid imagery that evokes an American landscape rife with possibilities. Lines referencing highways and cars not only serve as metaphors for freedom but also resonate with the broader cultural ethos of the timea heady mix of optimism and restlessness that characterized the early 1980s. This intersection of personal and cultural narratives is a hallmark of Setzer’s songwriting, showcasing his ability to craft songs that resonate on multiple levels, drawing in listeners with a combination of catchy hooks and relatable themes.

However, Rev It Up And Go” also stands as a reflection of the Stray Cats’ broader artistic journey. The track plays into the band’s identity not just as purveyors of retro sounds but as innovators within a cherished genre. As audiences clamored for the authenticity of earlier rock styles, the Stray Cats responded by reinvigorating the essence of rockabilly, imbuing it with a sense of urgency that was undeniably contemporary. Their success was not merely a revival; it was a reimagining that encouraged a new generation to appreciate the simplicity and exuberance of rock’s origins.

In retrospect, Rev It Up And Go” serves as a pivotal moment in the legacy of both the Stray Cats and the rockabilly revival movement. It captured the zeitgeist of a time when musical boundaries were beginning to blur, allowing disparate influences to coalesce into something fresh and vibrant. Through its infectious energy and thoughtful execution, the track remains a touchstone for those who celebrate the revitalization of classic sounds, reminding us that rock and rollat its besttranscends time and continues to inspire. In the roaring echoes of the chorus, one can still feel the rush of the open road, an endless invitation to rev it up and embrace the journey ahead.