The Blasters

Formed 1979 in Downey, CA, United States.

Phil Alvin (vocals, harmonica, guitar), John Bazz (bass), Bill Bateman (drums, 1979-93, 2008-present), Dave Alvin (guitar, 1979-86), Lee Allen (saxophone, 1981-94), Gene Taylor (keyboards, 1981-85), Steve Berlin (saxophone, 1981-84), Michael Mann [aka Hollywood Fats] (guitar, 1986), Billy Zoom (guitar, 1986), Greg "Smokey" Hormel (guitar, 1987-93), James Intveld (guitar, 1993-95), Dave Carroll (drums, 1993-94), Jerry Angel (drums, 1996-2008), Keith Wyatt (guitar, 1996-present).

The Blasters' self-described "American Music" was a blend of blues music, rockabilly, early rock and roll, punk rock, mountain music, and rhythm and blues. They still have a devoted fan base and have received largely positive critical reviews, but have earned only limited mainstream success. Critic Mark Deming wrote of them, "the Blasters displayed a wide-ranging musical diversity [and] were a supremely tight and tasteful band with enough fire, smarts, and passion for two or three groups."