The Blasters (Photo courtesy Ticketfly)
Known for their bend of rockabilly, punk, R&B, and blues, The Blasters took their place in musical history with their first four albums from 1980-85. Led by vocalist Phil Alvin, the gents returned in 2012 for a new album, Fun on Saturday Night. They are touring still as original members Bill Bateman (drums) and John Bazz (bass), as well as longtime bandmate Keith Wyatt (guitar), join Phil for a show at Hill Country Live on Saturday, Aug. 18.
Formed in Downey, California, in 1978 by brothers Phil Alvin and Dave Alvin, The Blasters called their sound “American Music.” Although Dave left for a successful solo career, he has returned to perform with the group from time to time. The band look to influences in George Jones, Carl Perkins, Ike Turner, Howlin’ Wolf, James Brown, and Big Joe Turner — and The Blasters blends them into the “American music” of rock ’n’ roll, country, blues, and rockabilly.
Watch The Blasters perform “Marie Marie” live at Farm Aid on Sept. 22, 1985, on YouTube:
“This is stripped down rock ‘n’ roll, the same as it’s been for more than three decades: no pyro, no light show, just four guys playing from the gut and the heart,” said No Depression in a review of The Blaster’s live show a few years ago.
The Blasters
w/ Lara Hope and The Ark-Tones
Hill Country Live
Saturday, Aug. 18
Doors @ 8:30pm
$22
All ages