The Blasters

American roots-rock band formed in Downey, California in 1979 by brothers Phil Alvin (vocals) and Dave Alvin (guitar). Lineup completed by John Bazz (bass), Bill Bateman (drums), and saxophonist Lee Allen. Distinguished by their fusion of rockabilly, blues, country, R&B, and punk-era energy — central to the Los Angeles "American" or "rebel rock" scene alongside X and Los Lobos.

The band's classic albums American Music (1980), The Blasters (1981), Non Fiction (1983), and Hard Line (1985) earned critical acclaim despite limited commercial success. Dave Alvin departed in 1986 for a solo career; the band has continued in various lineups. Reunited in 2003 for Trouble Bound and have toured intermittently since.