Who or what is known as 'the crickets'?

What is referred to by 'stop the rain'? Based on the clue 't is asking for this also a sports term or a punis...', what is the answer? Who or what is known as 'the blackhearts'? Who or what is known as 'the blue notes'? Who or what is known as 'the four seasons'? Who or what is known as 'the funky bunch'? Who or what is known as 'the gang'? Who or what is known as 'the machine'?