The Blasters

The Blasters are a rock music group formed in 1979 in Downey, California by brothers Phil Alvin (vocals and guitar) and Dave Alvin (guitar), with bass guitarist John Bazz and drummer Bill Bateman. Their so-called "American Roots Music

The Blasters are a rock music group formed in 1979 in Downey, California by brothers Phil Alvin (vocals and guitar) and Dave Alvin (guitar), with bass guitarist John Bazz and drummer Bill Bateman. Their so-called "American Roots Music" was a blend of blues music, rockabilly, early rock and roll and rhythm and blues. They have a devoted fan base and have received largely positive critical reviews, but have never been able to achieve mainstream success.

The Alvin brothers had an early interest in blues music, and attended concerts by T-Bone Walker, Big Joe Turner and others, sometimes jamming and reminiscing with the musicians. Rhythm and Blues saxophone legend Lee Allen joined The Blasters for their last two albums, and toured with them as well. Steve Berlin (later of Los Lobos) joined, playing baritone sax, and Gene Taylor joined as well, perfoming boogie woogie style piano.