“The Blues With Experience And Dedication”
Originally conceived in 2013, The Hogtown Allstars began almost by accident when five members of The Downchild Blues Band were approached by Blues On The Rideau promoter, James Doran with a proposal for a one/off show the would take place during the main bands annual winter hiatus. Chuck Jackson, Gary Kendall, Pat Carey, Mike Fitzpatrick and Michael Fonfara added ex-Fathead guitarist Teddy Leonard to the band and accepted the offer. A quick decision decided on the name by making reference to their home base and the show was announced. Immediately more offers came in and the rest is Canadian blues history. A new band of not so new southern Ontario players dedicated to the blues as an art form were on their way. The plan, remain loyal to Downchild and fit in shows around the main band`s schedule
In 2021 Michael Fonfara lost his long battle with cancer and Mike Fitzpatrick retired. They were replaced in Downchild and The Hogtown Allstars by Tyler Yarema (keyboards) and Jim Cassson (drums). That same year the band was offered a recording contract and exbanded the band by adding Howard Moore (trumpet). In 2022 Hog Wild, was released to overwhelming critical acclaim by Stony Plain Records. It bcame an instant classic
Built with some of the most experienced players in the global blues music community the members of Hogtown Allstars have won more than 20 Maple Blues Awards, 5 Juno Awards and numerous international blues and jazz music awards. Put all this together and you have a BLUES SUPERGROUP that cannot be underestimated. The legendary Downchild Blues Band completed the Farewell Tour in late 2024. The Hogtown Allstars have moved on to the next chapter.
The Hogtown Allstars are:
Chuck Jackson lead vocals/harmonica
Gary Kendall bass/vocals
Pat Carey tenor & baritone saxophone
Teddy Leonard guitar/vocals
Jim Casson drums/vocals
Tyler Yarema piano/organ/vocals
Howard Moore trumpet
REVIEWS: http://www.thehogtownallstars.ca/reviews
