Still going strong despite a seriously waning neo-swing scene, Lee Press-On and the Nails have recently completed their fourth CD, El Bando en Fuego (LPN Enterprises), which beautifully blends big band, swing, Latin, and tango. Gone are the days of the rock-and-roll renditions of big band songs (and vice versa). Nowadays, Lee's knack for clever arrangements is the focus, as these bad boys of modern swing keep getting better with every album.

El Bando features 16 songs, only five of which are originals. The remainder are new and energetic renditions of American popular standards, all delivered with a Latin flavor. Standouts include Cole Porter's "Begin the Beguine," the classics "Brazil" and "Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen," as well as "It Had Better Be Tonight" and "Coax Me A Little Bit," both of which feature the lovely Leslie Presley on vocals. Keeping with Lee's daffy playing style and showmanship, LNP also performs renditions of "Pink Elephants On Parade," made famous in the Disney movie classic Dumbo, Wall Of Voodoo's early 1980s hit "Mexican Radio," and Cole Porter's "Well Did You Evah."

Out of all of the modern swing bands of the 1990s, LPN clearly has prevailed over the rest. With every new release one hears a clear progression of innovative writing and arrangements. Add this one to your collection of neo favorites.

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