Royal Crown Revue Members, Gear & Sound

Royal Crown Revue is a vibrant musical group that helped spearhead the swing revival of the 1990s, blending elements of big band, rockabilly, and swing music to create a dynamic and timeless sound. Formed in 1989 in Los Angeles, the band features an impressive lineup, including Eddie Nichols (vocals), James Achor (guitar), Veikko Lepisto (bass), Mando Dorame (tenor saxophone), Bill Ungerman (baritone saxophone), Scott Steen (trumpet), and Daniel Glass (drums). Their energetic performances and nostalgic style have garnered them a dedicated following, with albums like Mugzy's Move and Walk On Fire showcasing their ability to fuse vintage swing with modern sensibilities.

Royal Crown Revue's sound is a high-energy blend of punchy brass arrangements and driving rhythms, capturing the essence of the swing era with a contemporary twist. Their music often features crisp, articulate horn sections that are both melodic and rhythmic, weaving seamlessly with snappy guitar riffs and an agile rhythm section. The band's lively swing groove is enhanced by vintage instruments, such as original "44" ribbon microphones and traditional drum kits like the DW Classics Buddy Rich Commemorative Kit used by Daniel Glass. This setup, paired with the dynamic use of mics like the Shure SM57, offers a warm, authentic sound that resonates with both nostalgia and innovation, making their music both timeless and fresh.