Squirrel Nut Zippers

About

Taking their name from a vintage brand of caramel candy, Squirrel Nut Zippers were formed in 1993 by then-married singer/multi-instrumentalists James Mathus and Katharine Whalen. Based in North Carolina, the retro-minded ensemble, which also prominently featured Tom Maxwell on vocals and various instruments, built a devoted fan base with their eclectic “hot jazz”-influenced sound. In ‘97, the macabre single “Hell” (penned by Maxwell) became a surprise hit for the Zippers, resulting in sudden success. Not long after the departure of Maxwell in ’99, the group, which also briefly included renowned singer-songwriter Andrew Bird, called it a day, but they reformed (sans Maxwell or Bird) for a tour in 2007. ~ Rovi