Biography

Johnny & The Mongrels is a high-powered, New Orleans-influenced band that is "the perfect combination of a funk filled heart & a deep bayou soul." Its founders, currently based in Fort Collins, Colorado, are singer/songwriter Johnny Ryan and singer/bassist/songwriter Jeff Bostic. Their debut LP, "Creole Skies,” was produced by JoeBaby Michaels (Neville~Jacobs, Shaun Murphy) and Scott Sharrard (formerly of The Gregg Allman Band). The record features a heavy-hitting lineup of veteran rock and R&B musicians, including guitarist Sharrard, keyboardist Bill McKay (Derek Trucks Band, Leftover Salmon), drummer Eddie Christmas (Jon Cleary, New Orleans Suspects), and Erica Brown on background, along with guest musicians Roddie Romero, Charlie Wooton and Lee Allen Zeno. The album was recorded at the famous Dockside Studio in Maurice, Louisiana, home to eight Grammy-winning albums.

“Mongrels music” is highly influenced by the grooves and feel of New Orleans, but the songs tell stories as well, as they are sung and played from the heart, giving them a depth and authenticity all their own. "With the vocal soul of Otis Redding & the instrumental chops of the Meters, Johnny & The Mongrels will sonically transform you to another place where you can smell the magnolias & the beignets are warm!" raved Chris Williams of Shattered Sky Music Group/Chimaera Sound Studios.

The song "Christmas Angels" is a song to help all of us remember that when we're feeling sad or lonely, missing the ones we've lost, that we should actually be inspired and encouraged. The ones we love are never lost. There always right here with us. If you heart is wide open...Just let it be.