A progressive western swing band with unique jazzy vocal harmonies reminiscent of Andrews Sisters with a country twang. The original band included Barry Sless (pedal steel), Charlie Crane (drums) – both formerly of the No Foolin’ Band, and No.1 Dog… along with Denise Carlson (fiddle), Beth Tyrone (bass), and Kate Bennett (acoustic guitar). Their 1981 album “That’s What I Like About the West” on Rounder 0149 featured Sless, Crane, Carlson, and Bennett. Tony DeFontes (ex-Jake, Freewater) replaced Beth Tyrone on bass, and Deanna Bogart plays piano.
Their “Swing Boogie” LP (Rounder 0173) was released in 1982.
The group performed at Painter’s Mill Music Fair. Local clubs included Toni’s Dream, Chatham Lounge, No Fish Today, The Horse You Came in On, Manor Tavern, Back of the Vac… Also toured across the country becoming favorites in other areas including the Texas club circuit.
Sless and Crane went on to play with post-Grateful Dead bands the David Nelson Band (of New Riders of the Purple Sage), Phil Lesh & Friends, and Kingfish. Bogart went on to perform with the Root Boy Slim band also becoming a popular solo performer and releasing several critically acclaimed LP’s.
1981(LP) Rounder 0149 That’s What I Like About the West
1982(LP) Rounder 0173 Swing Boogie
