The Hellhounds: Bands We Love

With a laid back and let loose style, The Hellhounds resemble a “Dogs Playing Poker” kind of band. And while these howling canines are no kennel of fire-blooded devil dogs, there’s no arguing, this band knows how to cook up some mean, hot blues. While trendy subgenres like rockabilly and bluegrass have redefined modern music, the group keeps to a refreshingly old-style sound: pure, unfiltered Chicago blues, the forebear of country, hip-hop and rock ‘n’ roll.

With “Cadillac” Phil Ajioka on lead and slide guitar, and Bill “The Howler” Wolfe on fretted, unfretted and classic stand-up bass, the Hounds kick out the jams with a changeup of all-electric and unplugged sets. Apart from the band’s solid combo of guitar, bass, drums and vocals, it’s the harmonica played by Dave “Shuv” Chavoya that gives the band its added texture of bluesy appeal.

Between Chavoya, who’s shared the stage with Etta James and Paul Butterfield, and drummer Allen “Tripple E” McDaniel, who’s played with members from Tower of Power and the Righteous Brothers, the group is a kind of dream team of local bluesmen. On stage, these hound dogs offer audiences a show in the musical vein of Buddy Guy, Howlin’ Wolf and the Muddy Waters Blues Band. With no one alpha male or leader of the pack, Chavoya, Ajioka and Wolfe all trade off on vocals. The trio of singers also howls in harmony touching on the bluesy gospel style of The Blind Boys of Alabama.

The Hellhounds can be found performing throughout Sonoma County at nightclubs, music festivals, cafes and wineries. Whether downhome or uptown, this band is guaranteed to unleash your doggoned blues and get your mojo working.
- Michael Shufro

Year Formed: 2001

Band Members: Phil Ajioka, guitar&vocals, Dave Chavoya harp&vocaLs, Bill Wolfe Bass& vocals, Allen McDaniel drumsya

Self Described Style: Classic and original blues

Albums + Release Dates: ”The Long Road” 2003, ” Back to Sonoma” 2009

Band Website: http://www.hellhounds.info

Main band e-mail address: hellhounds@hellhounds.info

Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Hellhounds/253729366837?ref=ts

Regular Gigs: Murphy’s, Cuvee Napa, Seghesio Vineyards, Sebasitiani Vineyards