By Frank DeBlase
"It seems lately that most rockabilly bands can't make up their mind.
They either go country, go punk, or wuss out and play pop. It's hard
core nuts like Rochester's Krypton 88 who keep rockabilly greasy,
alive, and kickin'. For the past two and a half years, Krypton 88
has essentially been the only real rockabilly band on the
local scene. Formed out of mutual appreciation for all things
hot-rod, Guinness, and female, bassist "big" Mike Woolaver and singer
guitarist Jim Via formed Krypton 88 to serve as the tear-it-up
soundtrack for wild nights the town."
By Michelle Picardo
Moving and shaking in the rockabilly tradition, our area's own hip cats, Krypton 88 show how it's
done on their recent self-titled release. The foursome's rootsy approach to these originals and
covers is full-throttle, played with energy to burn. Krypton 88's sound both appreciates the past,
while embracing the modern. Check out their cool versions of "Rip It Up" and "Train Kept A Rollin"...
By BL
A love of traditional rockabilly can lead to many things. With this band it has led to an enthusiastic
assembly of classic covers and a few originals done well. The guitars sound great, and the production
has a nice vintage feel. Good for workin’ under your hot rod… or if you’re like me, drinkin’ beer and
cursing your lousy beater. While I’d like to hear more of their originals like the excellent
“Back Street Racin” and the wonderful instrumental opening cut, “Monty Cristo,” this disc definitely
keeps the spirit alive and flowing. - BL
By Ben Beaver
This is the premier rockabilly band in Upstate NY. Rochester's own Krypton 88, Featuring singer guitarist Jim Via, the grittiest, greasiest, rocker that ever piled his hair up, add bassist "Big" Mike Woolaver on the upright slapping n' strumming his heart out for your pleasure and don't forget Drummer Joey Cintorino kicking and pounding his rhythms on those skins and cymbls. Between them, they create legendary stage performances. These masters of their instruments keep rockabilly full throttle and edgy. Krypton 88 has essentially been the only real rockabilly band on the local scene for years. If you have not seen them yet, be prepared to have your socks rocked off with tunes from Elvis, Johnny Cash, Stray Cats, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Blasters and some originals. They play songs about what excites them, be it cars, booze or hot chicks, all well pounding shots of Jack and shakin' it on stage. Look for them to deliver their own brand of revved-up American roots rock and rockabilly.
