The Camaros, a band formed in 1997 by Louisiana native Jen Jones in New York City, originally started as a four-piece Country/Rockabilly group. They quickly gained popularity as one of the emerging Swing bands, expanding their lineup to include two horn players and newcomer Leeanne Westover as a second lead vocalist. Their unique fusion of Rockabilly and Swing, complemented by bold lyrics, led them to perform five nights a week within just six months. They garnered favorable mentions in a U.S. magazine article highlighting the Dance revival. However, the demands of full-time touring took a toll on the group, and after two years, they disbanded, prompting Jones to return to her Southern roots in Honky Tonk, Rockabilly, and Western Swing. Despite the breakup, she continued to engage in occasional dance gigs, capitalizing on the recognition achieved from their debut release, which sold 5,000 copies.
Their first album, "Evil," released on Stupid Records—a label Jones established in 1987—benefited from distribution through Caroline and Hep Cat. This release celebrated the "Shameless Hussy" and featured a song that became an anthem for their fans, establishing Jones's reputation for blending irreverence with melody. Critics praised the band, with one stating, "Take it from me kiddies, this band kicks ass. They are a high-energy, hard-hitting, rockabilly, swing, punk mutation that will leave you drooling for more." (NINEVOLT) Another noted, "The Camaros flaunt a brand of sass that evokes Wanda Jackson." (ATOMIC) Their second release, "Dangergirl," was a limited edition that shifted from Swing to Jump Blues and sold out within a year, with the Washington Post commenting that tracks like "Am I the Girl" exuded a "Ruth Brown Swagger."
In 2000, The Camaros toured extensively, although by this time, Jen Jones was the sole original member, and their sound had shifted away from Swing. They opened for notable acts such as Ronnie Dawson and Ray Condo, introducing them to a dedicated roots audience. Their latest album, "RIGHT NOW I HATE YOU," reflected the road-worn camaraderie that developed from spending significant time together in a van. Bass player Dan Enriquez, known for his work with Wayne Hancock, contributed a year and a half to the band and co-wrote four standout tracks, infusing Jones's writing with his blues influences. Jones’s voice evolved into a compelling blend of roughness and smoothness, embodying both her Country roots and her growth as an artist.
After relocating to a small town in Tennessee, about an hour from Nashville, Jen's songwriting took on new depth. Her latest release, "Not Just a Heartbreaker," captures a raw vulnerability, presenting a candid exploration of love—marked by a desire for affection rather than bitterness or longing. The band’s sound has become increasingly traditional, thanks in part to Carco Clave's steel guitar work, which adds a rich melodic counterpoint reminiscent of classic Country music. Producer Scott McKwen, who also plays upright bass, contributes to the rhythm, particularly on tracks that feature no drums, a nod to pre-1965 Country music styles. The album features contributions from several guitarists, including Guthrie Trapp, who has played with Patty Loveless, and Chris Cassello, who brings Rockabilly elements and now tours with his own band, the Starlight Drifters. Bart Weilburg's guitar work significantly shaped the band's new sound, and they are pleased to have Rich Gilbert, known for his work with Frank Black and the Catholics, adding both guitar and lap steel to their latest songs.
The Camaros perform every Wednesday at The Bluegrass Inn in lower Broadway, often featuring drummer John McTigue (Dale Watson) and occasionally Steve Latanation (Agent Orange). "Not Just a Heartbreaker" exemplifies the genuine collaboration that occurs when a band develops a new sound in a live setting. The current lineup is regarded as their strongest yet, showcasing a remarkable collection of talent united by a shared vision for the band's direction. Their performances highlight a mix of music from Webb Pierce, Hank Williams Sr., and Patsy Cline, while still placing emphasis on original songs and Jen’s charismatic stage presence, setting them apart from their contemporaries.
