Hitched 'n Swaddlin'

Regular rockabilly shows in San Diego have diminished during the past decade. The Screamin' Solo Flights (featuring Omar Romero), the Hooligans, and Rip Carson used to rock and bop regularly at Tio Leo's and other venues around town. With Hot Rod Lincoln front man Buzz Campbell currently on guitar with Lee Rocker, that band isn't jamming as often.

Since March, though, the "Rockabilly Shake Out," has attracted touring and homegrown bands. The event, which began at Chasers in City Heights, is now held the first Friday of every month at Tio Leo's in Linda Vista.

"We showcase two to three bands," says promoter and deejay Julian "Juliancito" Vasquez. "We're trying to get people to dance and to get back into rockabilly."

Vasquez attributes the decline in the San Diego rockabilly scene to "a lot of bands breaking up and moving out of town, people getting married, and just getting older. Having kids really hampers partying on the weekend."

Another venue with a regular rockabilly night is Henry's Pub, downtown. The Stilettos play covers every Tuesday night (for free) until the bar closes.

The next Shake Out at Tio Leo's is set for December 7.