Original Cool

Released in 1993, Original Cool serves as a comprehensive tribute to the pioneers of rockabilly and early rock and roll. Moving away from the pop-oriented production of their mid-80s hits, the Stray Cats utilized this project to showcase their technical roots, covering legends like Buddy Holly, Eddie Cochran, and Gene Vincent. The album is notable for its 'back to basics' approach, emphasizing the trio's chemistry and their ability to replicate the specific slapback echo and analog warmth of 1950s recording techniques. Critically, it is often viewed as one of their most authentic recordings, bridging the gap between the 1980s revivalist movement and the original 1950s source material. The inclusion of tracks like 'Somethin’ Else' and 'Train Kept a Rollin’' highlights Setzer's evolution into a premier guitar stylist, while the album as a whole solidified the band's legacy as the most important torchbearers of the genre.