The Hogtown Allstars

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 that would take place during the main band’s 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 on the name made reference to their home base and the show was announced. 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 was to remain loyal to Downchild and fit in shows around the main band’s schedule. In 2022, Hog Wild was released by Stony Plain Records to overwhelming critical acclaim and became an instant classic. Built with some of the most experienced players in the global blues music community, the members of The 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 their 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