Billy's Band Essentials

Named for their charismatic, gruff-voiced singer and double bassist, this self-described "romantic alcojazz" band were formed in 2001 by frontman Billy Novick and guitarist Andrey Reznikov. Heavily influenced by Tom Waits—both in terms of their music and the after-hours atmosphere they conjure up—Billy's Band have always operated with integrity, driven by a DIY ethic. That approach, along with memorable live performances in Europe and North America, has helped them win over audiences worldwide with an intoxicating cocktail of blues, swing, jazz and rock. Cheers to that.