"I am an admitted skeptic when it comes to new music, especially when it comes to swing. It's not that I don't like many of the "neo-swing" artists, it's just the tremendous glut of them that became big while sounding generally the same. So said skepticism was on full display when I first met Jon Ceperano and listened to "Livin' It Up." Then I realized after a second listen that Jet Set Six is not a swing band. Sure, their music definitely has elements of swing, and you can do all those crazy dance moves to it, but why pigeonhole such an amazing piece of art by lumping it into one genre. It's like putting a Picasso next to the poker playing dogs. Sure they're both cool, but the true greatness and feeling of the artist shines through in the masterpiece. "Livin It Up" is such a masterpiece. Instead of rehashing an old (but great) sound, Jet Set Six evolve it. The horn section not just has talent, but also power. They assert themselves so you can't miss them, but never overpower the whole. Jon's lyrics are at once ingenious and also remarkably simple. His way of translating everyday situations into his remarkable wordplay is pure magic. I can't leave out the rhythm section, who are able to rock out and mellow down but always seem to keep my foot tapping. Bassist Josef Pelletier offers a great vocal turn on the old hobo folk tune "Jack and Joe" also. Let's put it simply... If you like to have fun and feel good, this is the CD you NEED. Buy "Livin' It Up." Now. When Jet Set Six comes to your town- and they will- see them play. Jet Set Six is just that good."
Foot stompin' crazy stuff !
10/02/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The songs just don't leave you for days after listening to it once! It's a new twist on swing and rock, really gets you going. I've bought a bunch of copies as presents. Can't wait for another album!"
Buy it, buy it, buy it
a swing fan | Cincinnati | 02/22/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Everyone else is right, there's nothing more to say. These guys are smart and funny, and they can really PLAY. I saw them live and let me tell you, they can plan ANYTHING. If you can see them, go. If you can't, buy this album. They even make their phone number sound great. One of the best swing (or any other) albums I own -- and I own a LOT!"
Jet Set Six Injects much needed vitality into swing movement
a swing fan | 09/02/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Whether you have grown weary of the typical fast blues and the conveniently hip yet slightly anachronistic lyrics of the modern swing band, or if you "dig" all of the modern "swing" bands, Jet Set Six is for you. On the one hand, "these cats can really play." If you like upbeat, danceable, and generally fun music, you will like Jet Set Six. On the other hand, "these cats can really play." The band features musicians with advanced degrees in Jazz studies and years of studio work. They aren't satisfied to ride the crest of the swing music by churning out just what you would expect...and yet their music doesn't impose itself upon you. It just feels right. Do yourself a favor and see them live if you can. If you hear them live, I guarantee you will want this CD."
Jet Set Six will buzz your tower at mach three speeds.
a swing fan | 06/09/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Buckle up tight, because these six swingin' cats are going to take you on the musical journey of your life! Livin' It Up will get fingers snapping, toes tapping, feet dancing, and legs kicking to a beat that just won't quit. Jet Set Six combines the perfect amount of rock, pop, and traditional swing to keep heads bopping and hips swaying. Each member gets a chance to show off his stuff with incredible licks, as the brass section plays with charisma that'll blow your mind. The band's original songs are masterfully written to keep listeners singing along, even after the disc has stopped spinning.Decked out in sharkskin suits, each member of Jet Set Six makes his character apparent. The saucy bass player and the attentive drummer provide a strong beat that rarely deviates, while the swanky guitar player wails massive chords that add that rebellious kick to Jet Set Six's trademark sound. The trumpet player is described with one word, phenomenal. This man can make his horn sing and scream!! (He puts me in a state of awe every time I see or hear him play.) The mesmerizing trombonist always manages to sweet talk his way into women's hearts with his slick moves and smooth glissandi, and the reserved saxophonist knows the secret to capturing the audience's attention with his sultry playing. The lead singer's cool ladies' man sound is accompanied by some of the smoothest harmonies to make each song sound just right. This band really rocks (and not just with swing)!!At work, I'm surrounded by theatre students who adore swing of all types. When I pop in Livin' It Up, it always manages to keep me and my staff in high spirits. I've seen Jet Set Six perform several times, and each experience has been an extremely enjoyable one. This band plays with a boundless energy that is highly contagious, especially when given the opportunity to see them live. Ladies, make sure you strap on those dancin' shoes and hold on to your hearts because this sexy group of guys has a knack for swooning women into a craze. These guys emit fun whether they're on or off stage.I highly recommend this wonderful CD, and I strongly suggest seeing Jet Set Six perform live. If you are ever in the mood for some upbeat music, make sure you give Livin' It Up a whirl. It won't matter which track you play, they're all fabulous!! I guarantee that Jet Set Six will buzz your tower at mach three speeds. They'll definitely put you in a swing groove that you've never encountered before. Kudos to John Ceparano for his musical talent and his ingenious songwriting!!"