to-nite Magazine
June 6-12, 2002
by Gary Tate
BEBOP COWBOYS SWING STYLISHLY IN DEBUT
There’s a Toronto School of Western Swing called the Bebop Cowboys that consists of five scholars who specialize
in studying the works of Bob Wills, Spade Cooley, Ray Price, Buddy Emmons and Count Basie. Western Swing never
completely faded away, but like many other North American roots genres it peaked in the 40s and early 50s. With
origins traceable to Texas and Oklahoma dance halls during the 1930s, it really hit its stride during WWII.
Just add three parts Hillbilly music to two parts big band-era swing and presto, you have Western Swing. The Bebop
Cowboys are Wednesday night regulars at the Cadillac Lounge in Parkdale and consist of Howard Willett (harmonica,
lead vocals), Steve Briggs (guitar, mandolin, vocals), Burke Carroll (pedal steel), Dennis Pinhorn (stand-up and
Fender bass, vocals) and John Adames (drums).
Their recently released CD Début toasts many of the outstanding performers who contributed to Western Swing,
which is really an alchemy of many influences. Delight to its Jazzy sophistication, its Jump Blues vitality, and
its melodic sensibilities (and instrumentation) which it inherited from Bluegrass and Country. The Bebop Cowboys
also bring Rhythm and Blues/Rockabilly to the forefront of their repertoire. It’s a good bet you’ll hear some Chuck
Berry, Slim Harpo and Carl Perkins in the mix too.
With these guys, few stones are left unturned, meaning audiophiles are flocking to their shows, while their dedicated
cult following is spreading the news far and wide.
The elements behind their success rest on three factors: rock-solid musicianship (these veterans are masters),
a wide-ranging musical palette that invites genre-bending, and a camaraderie and sense of fun that provides for
flair and showmanship.
Howard Willett is the troubadour of the Cowboys and he does a mighty fine job at it. Howard’s also into the Blues,
most notably with Howard Willett and the Shifters. Willett understands the close linkage between Blues, Country,
Jazz, and Western Swing. You gotta appreciate the way he’s effortlessly adapted the harmonica into the genre, making
it seem a natural part of the overall flow.
Steve Briggs is a championship caliber guitarist, immersed in and conversant with the roots of whatever he plays.
When he’s not onstage thrilling audiences, Steve’s tutoring the next generation of guitar players. Steve’s one
of those complete virtuosos on the strings (a Canadian version of Asleep At The Wheel's Ray Benson perhaps) and
so darn compelling that he simply demands to be heard.
