Local band Backdraft is comprised of firefighters from Toronto Fire Services including Dave McNamara as drummer and percussionist, Mike Fleming as vocalist and guitarist,
and Rob Fitzgerald as vocalist and guitarist, along with Neil Dechamplain as bass guitarist, vocalist, guitarist and keyboardist. Backdraft also features special appearances from other firefighters as well, including Captain Mike Strapko on guitar. “We’re a classic rock band, introducing original rock and blues shortly,†said Fleming. “We want to be available for any charity.†Burlington resident Fleming has been a firefighter for 10 years and put the band together last year. Playing music is not new to Fleming who had an extensive career in music before becoming a firefighter. “I’ve always been involved in music and used to tour professionally before having my midlife crisis and joining the fire department,†he joked. “I was in a previous band of firefighters that did a CD with proceeds going towards muscular dystrophy. I started a new band as I’m more of a rock player and we help out any charity, from firefighters fighting cancer to families that are burned out of their homes.â€
Last summer, the band performed at Burlington’s Sound of Music Festival as well as the Mississauga Waterfront Festival.