The Hep-Tights
Greasy Blues and Rockin' Rhythms
Led by Saxophonist Ed Croft, The Hep-Tights are a powerhouse quartet, weaving the rich textures of blues, the sultry rhythms of soul, and the raw energy of rock and roll. The Hep-Tights bring a fun, fresh vibe to their live performances, blending old-school cool with a modern edge.
With the soulful melodies of the saxophone, the guitar’s searing riffs, and a driving rhythm section they keep the pulse alive and grooving, drawing inspiration from the likes of King Curtis, Booker T. & The MG’s and other great rock & roll innovators. The Hep-Tights offer a unique fusion of genres, perfect for anyone who craves both sophisticated and greasy blues, soul and rock & roll.
The Hep-Tights bring it to the stage with soul, swagger, and undeniable boogaloo.
Each member brings his own distinct flavor to the music, collectively creating a seamless synergy that keeps crowds moving with music that speaks both to the heart and feet.
Ed Croft
Band Leader/ Saxophone/ Vocal
Back in 1982, while still in high school, Ed got his start with the San Diego band N-E-1 (Anyone) whose local hit tune 1-2-3 received substantial airplay on 91X and KROQ. This tune landed the band opening gigs with The Clash, Madness, Bad Manners, Oingo Boingo and many others. He also played with the oldies rock band The Wanderers.
From 87 to 91, Ed was the lead Tenor Sax for the Navy Band New Orleans. He also had regular gigs with Cajun/Zydeco groups File (Fee-lay), The Basin Brothers and Rocking Dopsie.
After the Navy, Ed moved to Fort Collins CO to attend Colorado State University. While in school he played with numerous blues acts, The Fort Collins Wind Symphony, The Porters Irish Trio and his own group Bluesology and The No Exit Horns.
Moving back to San Diego in 94, Ed played with numerous bands most notably Buddy Blue and later his own group, Muggles Meshugana Lounge.
In 2001, he moved back to New Orleans where he played with Sun Ra's trumpet player Michael Ray and The Cosmic Krewe, funk group Greenhouse and latin groups, Ritmo Caribeno and Fuerza Latina.
Another move in 2010 landed Ed in Los Angeles where he played with FEAR and The Midnight Death Trap Quartet.
Finally, in 2014, Ed was back in his hometown of San Diego. This time playing with amazing local groups such as Blue Largo, Black Market III, The Fire Brothers, Salty Papa, Rey Wolf, The Farmers, Sven Erik-Seaholm, T.A. Tomlinson and The Brian Jones Rock and Roll Revival.
In late 2024, Ed brought together Tony Tomlinson (guitar, vocal), Heath Cooley (drums, vocal) and Mike Jones (bass, vocal) to form a roadhouse, juke joint inspired band, like the early days of rock and roll, The Hep-Tights.
(Photo: Rodrigo Izqiuerdo)
Scottie Blinn
Guitar/ Vocal
Known for his bands Black Market III and The Mississippi Mudsharks, Scott has been active on the San Diego music scene since the early '90s. During his 34 year recording and international touring career, Scott has produced recorded and numerous albums for his bands as well as local San Diego bands, several of which have topped roots music charts here and in Europe.
He has received 34 nominations (for his work or work with clients) from the San Diego Music Awards and other international awards in the "Best Blues Band", "Best Rock Band", "Best Blues Album", “Best Rock Album”, and "Artist Of The Year" categories.
Scott's tenure with The Mississippi Mudsharks also produced 3 SDMA wins for "Best Blues Band". More recently, Black Market III took home the "Best Video" award from the SDMA's in 2023.
(Photo: Haydn Hart)
Mike "Sandalwood Haze" Jones
Bass/ Vocal
Born and raised in San Diego, Mike Jones, a.k.a. Sandalwood Haze, is one laid back, cool and humble guy. In fact it was a challenge getting him to share his history with you all.
With that said, he has been playing bass for over 30 years locally, along with national and international tours. We are sure he has stories to tell but he let's his bass do the talking and The Hep-Tights are good with that.
Mike has played with many legendary San Diego bands, and for good reason, he grooves, locks it in and enjoys playing music. Always with a smile, Mike has performed with the following groups and in no particular order: Blue Largo, Bill Magee Blues Band, Mississippi Mudsharks, Dark Globe, Tomcat Courtney, Fred Heath, and The Freemonts, just to name a few.
Although his career has been mostly Blues, Mike is well versed in many musical styles and he now shares his musical experience with The Hep-Tights. We say buy this man a beer, but do not challenge him to a game of pool. You will likely buy him another and another. Cheers!
(Photo: Scott Blinn)
Heath Cooley
Drums/ Vocal
Originally from Mesa, Arizona, Heath began playing drums as a teenager, cutting his teeth playing blues and rockabilly in clubs and bars throughout the state.
In the early 1990s, Heath moved to California and soon joined San Diego rockabilly/psychobilly outfit, The Hooligans. During his five years with the band, they recorded two albums, signed an indie record deal, secured European distribution, appeared on compilation releases, and toured the West Coast.
Looking to further his music career, Heath moved to Los Angeles where he spent the next 18 years playing in a variety of bands and music projects, performing at many of the city’s premier venues. He co-founded indie/alternative rock groups Solarcade and The Killbirds, both of which released studio albums and secured indie record deals. During his time in Los Angeles, Heath also spent five years working at Universal Music Group.
In 2013, Heath and his wife moved to Napa Valley in search of a change of pace. While working in the wine industry, he continued playing music, performing at wineries and bars with a rock/soul group called, The Sticky Notes and his own home-grown project, J & The Rosés.
After a few evacuations from wildfires in the area, the Cooleys moved to San Diego in early 2022. This return brought Heath full circle, giving him the opportunity to reconnect with the local music scene and the city he loves. Today, he plays drums with The Hep-Tights and continues to stay active in the San Diego music community.
(Photo: Scott Blinn)