The Hogtown Allstars (from the album Hog Wild

The Hogtown Allstars (from the album Hog Wild

The Hogtown Allstars (from the album Hog Wild on Stoney Plain Records) (By Lee Zimmerman)
Spawned from two revered Canadian Blues bands, Downchild Blues Band and Maple Blues Band, this new supergroup of sorts that refers to itself as The Hogtown Allstars take a decidedly dynamic approach courtesy of their first emphatic outing. Over the course of its ten tracks, they lean on a brassy and sassy sound that brings to mind classic Rhythm and Blues of an earlier iconic era.
Surprisingly enough, it’s the group’s first release since they formed their initial bond in 2013.
So too, despite their obvious influences, the band — Chuck Jackson (lead vocals/harmonica), Pat Carey (sax), Gary Kendall (bass), Jim Casson drums), Tyler Yarema (piano/organ), Teddy Leonard (guitar) and Howard Moore (trumpet) — still manage to exert their own originality courtesy of the eight songs that Jackson penned in addition to a pair of classic covers, “I Ain’t Livin’” and “She’s Got the Stuff”.

In either instance, the music still sounds timeless, from the sheer jubilation of the tellingly titled “Mr. Lucky” and the steady stomp of “Real Good Night” to the soulful sway of “Angel in My Bed”, the blustery Blues of “The Sad One”, and the strut and saunter of “I Just Think Of You”. The Hogtown Allstars dedication to form is obvious, but they manage to distinguish themselves by placing a personal stamp on the proceedings. Attitude and conviction fuel each of these offerings, but it’s the cohesive delivery and a decided determination that bring each of the entries to full fruition.
Ultimately, Hog Wild is best judged by its bluesy barometer, one that finds a firm foundation in classic composition and an arched approach that hews to soulful sourcing. Respectful of their roots, but possessing an irrepressible attitude all their own, The Hogtown Allstars deserve full credit for producing a truly dynamic debut (by Lee Zimmerman)
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