The Blasters

Founded by brothers Dave and Phil Alvin, The Blasters are one of roots-rock’s most enduring acts: Despite multiple lineup changes and sabbaticals, their sound has changed little over a quarter of a century. Straddling the line between the punky Americana of X (which Dave joined briefly in the ’80s) and the relative traditionalism of John Mellencamp (who played on 1985’s Hard Line), The Blasters pay homage to rockabilly and blues without coming off as nostalgic or cheesy. The current edition of The Blasters is missing Dave, but Phil continues to carry the torch high.