The Jitterbug Vipers
You listen to The Jitterbug Vipers and you think you've been transported to a dim lit nightclub in 1940's Chicago where Billie Holliday and Wes Montgomery are jamming with Ray Brown. Period jazz, swing, whatever you want to call it; it's suave, cool, danceable, hot, sultry, sophisticated and beautiful, and influenced by the 40s, Count Basie’s Rhythm section and Thai food. Ahhhh! Played by Texans?! Yeah, right! Well, check it out. Close your eyes and you won't believe your ears. Emily Gimble, vocals (think Peggy Lee, Julie London, Dinah Washington) & piano; Slim Richey, guitar (dangerous); and Francie Meaux Jeaux, bass fiddle (most solid walking bass).
Slim Richey, the most dangerous guitarist in Texas, has played and recorded with quite a few biggies including Herb Ellis, Marc Johnson, Maryann Price, Marty Stuart, David Amram, Ricky Skaggs, and Ray Price. He’s toured Japan twice, Italy three times and internationally recognized for his distinct style of Southwestern swing/jazz guitar.
Francie Meaux Jeaux, bassist extraordinaire has played with Dan Hicks, Michelle Shocked, Bruce Robison, Kelly Willis and Maryann Price. She’s a veteran of many Jazz Festivals including the San Miguel de Allende International Jazz Festival in Mexico.
Emily Gimble is an extremely talented singer and piano player. Clearly destined for greatness, Emily is 22 years old and already playing and appearing with many of music's greats such as Ray Benson & Asleep at the Wheel, Randy Elmore's Swing Showcase, Tribute to Cindy Walker (at the Paramount where Slim first heard her), and with her grandfather, fiddle legend, Johnny Gimble. And now she’s singing and playing with The Jitterbug Vipers.