The Outta Towners: The Legacy of Soul Music Lives On
91.3 KBCS Operation Assistant, Jalisa Bass reporting a wild introduction.
Social anxiety often shapes how I engage with the world, though it hasn’t taken away from my experiences. Like many in Seattle, I find comfort in familiar spaces and music. Long before moving to Seattle, both always were a constant in my life. I embraced a wide range of genres—Ray Barretto’s jazz-infused “Summertime”, Tom Waits’ gritty “The Piano is Drinking”, and the reflective hip-hop of Ab-Soul & Zacari’s “Do Better”. Music, for me, has always been a way to connect with my environment, bringing balance and clarity to the chaos.
Crescent Moonlighting
September 8TH Sunday night began serendipitously. The Waxing Crescent Moon hung low, casting shadows that twisted unnervingly. The shadows stretched across the pavement like dark tendrils. Cool air whispered of the encroaching fall and carrying with it a chill that would have normally unsettled me. Just down the strip, at the foot of the Cathedral, a man in faded brown dockers sat motionless. His only company was the low hum of global news on a crackling portable radio. The Sunset Tavern loomed with a gritty exterior. Its worn-down charm more ominous than inviting, yet it pulled me in. I found parking immediately, something almost unheard of in the city. Thus, I felt like an omen that this night would be special. Tonight, I wasn’t running from the fear but it was carrying me like a charged chariot, propelling me forward with a strange excitement. The city itself was holding its breath, preparing for something beyond the ordinary.
The Sunset Tavern & Neighbors
After paying $12.50 for my ticket at the door and receiving the warmest welcome from the host, I entered through The Sunset Tavern’s backdoor, which evoked the spirit of prohibition-era speakeasy. The dimly lit space was illuminated by small candles scattered across tables. A neon sign was glowing faintly in the background and the atmosphere hummed with anticipation. It wasn’t hard to see why this venue draws people in—it’s equal parts intimate and quirky, the perfect setting for a night of music that would stay with me long after.
At the bar, I met my neighbors, Morgan Paris Lanza and Keely. As I sipped on a Lavender Soda, I couldn’t help but feel how saxophonist Tyler Rogers, blend jazz, rock, and pop into a sound that both honors Seattle’s rich musical history and paves its own path. I had never been so seduced by a saxophone before. That night, I felt something new. A deep connection between body and mind, brought to life by the captivating tones of a saxophone. It wasn’t just a performance; it was an intimate conversation in melody, filling the room with free love and revolution. But it’s not just the sax that defines this band’s unique energy—it’s the rhythm section that keeps everything grounded and approachable.
The OuttaTowners
While the saxophone entranced me, the real revelation came after the show. I was so captivated by The OuttaTowners that I looked up their vocalist, Savanna Woods. To my surprise, I learned that she had been a standout on Season 20 of The Voice, even earning a spot on Kelly Clarkson’s team. It was hard to believe that I had just witnessed such talent in such an intimate setting. Woods’ voice— a reminiscence blending the soulful depth of Etta James with the raw power of Janis Joplin—pulled me out of my saxophone-induced haze, grounding me back in reality. Her voice is both powerful and vulnerable, breathing life into lyrics that carry the spirit of soul music’s legacy.
Bassist Matthew Crissey lays down steady, soulful grooves that effortlessly hold the band together. His playing is subtle but powerful, always driving the music forward. Meanwhile, Jacob Martin on keyboards brings warmth and complexity, seamlessly balancing lead melodies and support. His charisma shows in every note. In contrast, drummer Luca Cartner adds a crisp, versatile energy with his relaxed yet dynamic style, giving the band an approachable feel. Together, this rhythm section forms a solid foundation that not only supports but also elevates the sax and vocals. Ultimately, The Outta Towners create an emotional experience on stage, reminding the audience that the legacy of soul music continues with passion.
Good Night Ya’ll
In a world where musical genres blur and overlap, The OuttaTowners stand as true fusion artists. They show that music doesn’t need to be a perfect fairytale to connect with people—it just needs to be real. Their music brings people together in ways few others can.
The legacy of soul music lives on, and The OuttaTowners are proudly carrying that torch. If you don’t believe me, check out the video below.
Looking forward to your comments Washington.
Signing Off,
91.3 KBCS Jalisa Bass
Wintergrass Jamming Culture
Every year, the nooks and crannies of the hallways of a fancy, downtown Bellevue hotel are filled with bluegrass music during the Wintergrass Music Festival. Wintergrass is a northwest bluegrass festival tradition bringing the region bluegrass artists from around the world, workshops on this musical genre and techniques, and a youth camp for the children on mid-winter break. KBCS introduces you to a little of the culture behind a bluegrass festival – the jamming.
The Music Under the Alaskan Way Viaduct
As the Alaskan Way Viaduct closes and is demolished this year, Cynthia Brothers, Founder of Vanishing Seattle shares stories about the grunge, gay and hip hop subcultures that flourished in the shadows of the structure over the past half century.
produced by Yuko Kodama, Noah Allen and Jesse Callahan
photo by Stephen Cysewski