My profile was customized using the Taming the Beast.net MySpace Layout Generator
The Fire Numbers can be seen regularly on some of Toronto's most legendary and revered blues music stages, including the Cadillac Lounge and Grossman's Tavern. The band was also featured this year at the prestigious Orangeville Blues & Jazz Festival.
The Fire Numbers material ranges from from the deep blues of BB King, the deep groove of Curtis Mayfield, and a soul-stirring array of original blues and soul material.
The band's founder, Chris Antonik, is a Toronto guitarist and songwriter whose distinct and visceral blues style and soulful, earthy tones have made him one of Toronto's most entertaining and passionate blues guitarists. Infused in the philosophy and style of influences such as Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Derek Trucks, Carlos Santana and John Coltrane, Chris' career highlights include sharing the stage with blues legend Mel Brown, and also filling in for Jeff Healey with the Jon Raven Band (please visit www.chrisantonik.com). Chris has also appeared as a session player on various recordings.
On lead vocals is Henry Lees. Over the years, Henry has been heard belting it out on several radio jingles as well as singing for Calgary's popular original pop-rock band, The Household Saints, who recorded several records and performed all over Alberta and B.C. The highlight of Henry's musical life to date was performing coast to coast with Canadian actor, musician and philanthropist, Tom Jackson, to benefit the Canadian Association of Food Banks. In so doing, Henry shared the stage with some of Canada's most respected talents like Colin James and Natalie MacMaster. Henry now resides in Toronto and works as a Senior Producer for Country Music Television.
Drummer Anthony Lucic provides the solid rhythmic background. Anthony's feel good blues-funk beats come from the last five years of playing and recording in and around Toronto in various bands including star.star and The Fortunates.
New to Toronto, bassist Don Forster brings years of experience from the Australian music scene. Having delved into numerous musical styles with some of Australia's most well known musicians, Don's career highlights down under inlcude opening for Australian music legends INXS and Jimmy Barnes.
On organ, piano and backing vocals is the versatile Rob Cooper. Rob has worked as a performer, composer, and session player with some of Ontario’s finest singer/songwriters for over a decade.