The Hot Club of Cowtown formed in 1996 as a Hot Jazz/Western swing group. The group consisted of Elana James nee Fremerman (Vocals, Violin), Whit Smith (Vocals, Guitar), and Jake Erwin (Vocals, Upright Bass). The Hot Club's first album, 1998's Swingin' Stampede, was a collection of covers of classic tunes, including two written by Bob Wills, a major influence on the band. Their 1999 follow-up album, Tall Tales, showcased the songwriting ability of both Smith and Fremerman