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The Outta Towners: The Legacy of Soul Music Lives On


91.3 KBCS Jalisa Bass The image shows Jalisa smiling warmly at the camera, wearing a pair of stylish, large, round glasses. Her hair is styled in a bun with a headband that has orange and brown accents. She is wearing a green shirt, and the background shows part of a cozy room with artwork visible on the wall. The soft lighting highlights her friendly and approachable demeanor.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.

The image shows a cozy, dimly lit area of a tavern, likely a booth seating section with a whimsical mural of a crescent moon with a face looking toward a small table. The wooden walls are adorned with framed photos and decorations, including a mounted fish. The lighting is warm, casting an inviting glow from small candles on the tables and bar. A door marked “HEAD” can be seen in the background. The overall ambiance reflects a nostalgic, quirky vibe with a blend of retro decor, making it an intimate space for gatherings. 91.3 KBCS Jalisa Bass

At the bar, I met my neighbors, Morgan Paris Lanza and Keely. The image shows three people smiling at the camera in a warmly lit venue. To the left is Jalisa, wearing large, reflective glasses. She has a bright smile, illuminated by the colorful lighting in the background. In the middle is Keely, radiating a joyful, carefree energy with her wide smile and casual, relaxed appearance. To the right is Morgan Paris Lanza, smiling confidently. Morgan is a talented musician known for her contributions to the local music scene. The lighting gives the scene a vibrant, intimate feel, capturing the camaraderie and fun of the evening. 91.3 KBCS Jalisa BassAs 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. The image features a saxophonist performing live on stage in a dimly lit venue. The musician, blurred slightly in motion, stands with a saxophone in hand, positioned near a microphone stand. He is in front of a striped black and white background with soft, ambient lighting. Two large stage speakers are visible in the foreground, emphasizing the live performance setting. The image conveys the energy of live music in an intimate, moody atmosphere.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


The image captures a live performance by The Outta Towners on stage. In the foreground is vocalist Savanna Woods, energetically singing into the microphone. She wears a headband and has long dreads, with her expressive gestures matching the intensity of her voice. Next to her is the saxophonist, playing alongside the band, bathed in stage lighting. Behind them, you can see part of the drum set and a Nord Stage 3 keyboard, as well as other instruments that contribute to the dynamic atmosphere. The blurred, vibrant lighting gives the scene a lively, electric energy, perfectly encapsulating the raw passion of their performance.

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.

The image captures The Outta Towners bassist, Matthew Crissey, performing live on stage. Matthew is seen playing his bass guitar, wearing a casual outfit of a t-shirt, shorts, and a bucket hat, giving off a relaxed and approachable vibe. He stands slightly turned toward the band, deeply focused on his instrument. In the background, you can see other band members and equipment, including a laptop on a stand and additional instruments. The stage lighting is a mix of vibrant purples and greens, adding a dynamic energy to the scene and reflecting the laid-back yet powerful atmosphere of the performance.

Bassist Matthew Crissey lays down steady, soulful grooves that effortlessly hold the band together. His playing is subtle but powerful, always driving theThe image captures a moment from a live performance featuring The Outta Towners keyboardist, Jacob Martin. He is seated behind a Nord Stage 3 keyboard, deeply focused on playing, with a laptop set up in front of him. Jacob is wearing a colorful, tropical-print shirt and a red cap that reads “CONSPIRACY THEORIST.” The stage is lit with purples and reds, adding to the lively atmosphere of the performance. In the background, the drummer is partially visible, adding depth to the scene. The setting reflects the intimate, energetic vibe of the venue, with Jacob’s keyboard playing adding layers of warmth and complexity to the band’s sound. 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

 

 

 

 

 

Black Belt Eagle Scout

Katherine Paul or KP is the music artist behind Black Belt Eagle Scout. Her music has influences of alternative rock and traditional indigenous singing and drumming.  Paul is enrolled in the Swinomish tribe and is from Colville and Inupiaq lines.  She grew up in a family of indigenous drummers, singers and dancers.  Paul shares her approach and relationship with her music with KBCS’s Yuko Kodama.

Black Belt Eagle Scout will be headlining the 50 Years of Music and Ideas KBCS event this Wednesday evening at 7:30 at the Tractor Tavern, Alongside Richard Simeonoff and Mr. Sam.   

 

50 Years of Music and Ideas KBCS Event

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at Tractor Tavern (5213 Ballard Ave NW Seattle, WA 98107) 7:30 pm (Doors open at 6:30)

get tickets here!

 

Producers: Yuko Kodama and Widder Sessions

Photo: by Nate Lemuel

KBCS In-Studio with Andrew Duhon

Andrew Duhon stopped by the KBCS studio on Wednesday, October 4th and we had a terrific conversation about PNW logging roads, how walking in a circle may not take you back to where you started from and being inspired by nature in songwriting as both metaphor and our place within in it. That took us to chatting about kudzu which took us to poems by Robert Frost and James Dickey and even a choice Henry David Thoreau quote from Self Reliance. C’mon now!

You can hear the interview plus 3 live songs above!

On the Block

On the Block is an event to celebrate local artists in visual art, music, street-wear and food every second Sunday of the month through October.  KBCS’s Yuko Kodama spoke with Julie Chang Schulman, Co-founder of Forever Safe Spaces, and is one of the Co-organizers of a coalition of artists who present the event held in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood on 11th Ave and between East Pike and East Pine from 11 am to 7 pm. 

 Chang Schulman describes the foundations and mission of the event and coalition.

Producer: Yuko Kodama

Bridging the Divide Through Music

Miriam Oomen is a musician (fiddle player), teaches music and plays in old-time bands.  She hails from Eugene, Oregon and was at Bellevue College as a speaker at a Bellevue College event, Voices United: A Week of Campus-Wide and Civic Conversation.  It provides the opportunity to discuss why and how to have conversations about difficult or complex topics.  Oomen describes how music has bridged the divide for her.

KBCS In-Studio with Stephanie Anne Johnson

We were thrilled that Stephanie Anne Johnson stopped by the KBCS studio this week to chat about their new album Jewels with Mike Biggins, our host of Monday night’s Soul Folks and Sunday morning’s Sunday Folks. Stephanie, accompanied by Jeff Fielder (Amy Ray, Mark Lanegan), also performs a few new songs for us. 

You can listen to the conversation here or catch it on air Friday afternoon at 1:00 PM and then also on Soul Folks!

Stephanie Anne Johnson’s upcoming shows:

Saturday, April 8th at Open Space for Arts & Community

Saturday, April 15th at Kilworth Memorial Chapel at University of Puget Sound

Friday, April 28th at The Triple Door

 

Road Songs Looks Back

Our host of Road Songs (and Night Train!), Rus Thompson, looks back at 2022 with a few of his favorite albums of the year. Catch Road Songs every Tuesday from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

“The mark for me of a memorable album of songs is that I end up playing all of them at some point on Road Songs. And what makes a memorable song? Personal and piquant writing, with imagery that evokes the heartbreak, happiness, and trials of everyday life, especially life on the road. Here are my five most memorable albums of 2022:”

Zach Bryan/American Heartbreak/Belting Bronco Records

Plains/I Walked With You a Ways/Anti

Laura Benitez and the Heartache/California Centuries/Copperhead Records

Chris Canterbury/Quaalude Lullabies/Rancho Deluxe Records

Ian Noe/River Fools and Mountain Saints/Lock 13 Records

City Soul Looks Back at 2022

Friday nights at 9:00 P.M. J-Justice presents a kaleidoscope of soulful electronic sounds, City Soul connects the dots between modern club culture and its past influences from around the globe. Check out a few of his favorite albums from 2022!

  • High Pulp – Pursuits of Ends – Anti
  • Sonnyjim- White Girl Wasted
  • Hagan – Textures – Python Syndicate 
  • Barbie Bertisch – Prelude – Love Injection
  • Mr Fingers – Around the Sun Pt. 1 – Alleviated Music
  • Malayan McCraven – In These Times – International Anthem
  • Space Ghost – Private Paradise- Pacific Rhythm
  • Nu Genea – Bar Mediterrano – NG Records

Flotation Device Looks Back at 2022

Recovered Voices and Radical Music

by Michael Schell

December is the season when a DJ’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of…the year’s best albums. And when your corner of the world is as variegated as the cutting-edge creative and improvised music we feature on Flotation Device, then there’s a lot to choose from! One of the most remarkable items to cross our desk this year is about to be showcased on our December 11 show: A House of Call, My Imaginary Notebook, by the German composer and recovered rock-and-roller, Heiner Goebbels.

Goebbels has a penchant for juxtaposing dissimilar kinds of music. In A House of Call, voices from old archival recordings are accompanied by a live orchestra in unexpected ways. The excerpt we’ll be playing uses the solo voice of a Namibian native, captured on a wax cylinder in 1931. Goebbels garnishes it with fractured big band music that suggests a Trinidad night club—which seems innocuous enough until you consider that the source recording was made at a German-owned cattle ranch in southwest Africa at the height of the colonial era.

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Although Goebbels hints at his ideological stance in the title for this section, Wax and Violence, he nevertheless presents his material dispassionately. What’s conveyed here, and throughout the album, is a disorienting ambivalence—perhaps a nostalgia for lost voices and myths, but also a reminder of the tenuous cohesion of human memory, and how deeper meanings often lurk beneath the surface of things. At a time when much contemporary art seems calculated to deliver political messages to already-convinced audiences, Goebbels demonstrates that music often communicates more profoundly when things are left ambiguous.

The idea of accompanying a recorded song with live musicians originated in a work by Gavin Bryars that coincidentally was premiered exactly 50 years ago this Sunday. It’s called Jesus’ Blood Never Failed Me Yet, named for a hymn tune sung by a homeless Londoner, a recording of which Bryars fashioned into a tape loop that plays continuously throughout the performance. And like Goebbels he deploys an orchestra to interact with the lonely voice. But there’s a twist: the man sings in tune, but slightly off-rhythm. So the live musicians tend to falter a bit trying to stay in sync with him. In Bryars’ treatment the man’s deprivation and optimism both come through in his voice, like an old Beckett character laughing at his suffering. Nowadays the piece is considered one of the great masterworks of musical minimalism, and we’ll sample it on our program via two different recordings, including one that features Tom Waits.

I can’t help but admire the pluck and resilience of these beleaguered voices, refracted and amplified by contemporary musicians. They epitomize the impactful and far-reaching sounds we look for every week on Flotation Device—music below the radar of commercial broadcasters, and even most jazz and classical stations. It’s the kind of programming you’ll only find on KBCS, and I’m pleased to share it with you Sunday nights from 10 to Midnight!

Photo captions:

Links:

Bellevue College Global Leaders Music Picks

Du Dinh 

Hi guys, my name is Du Dinh. I’m currently one of the Global Leaders at Bellevue College. This is my second year here and my major is computer science. I love playing sports, video games, listening to music and throwing Pokemon games on YouTube. Today I would like to share one of my favorite songs with you guys. The name of the song is called “Có Đâu Ai Ngờ.” It is a Vietnamese song by a Vietnamese artist, Cam. This song is about love and the melody and it’s really slow and cute. I hope you can enjoy it and have a nice day!

 

Jemima 

One of my favorite songs is “Tout Seul” by Gally and Heritier Wata. It is one of my favorite songs because it is a mix of emotions. It is quiet and at the same time deep. It’s a song that I discovered when I went to Canada to see my brothers and sisters and I know it was one of the favorite songs of my brothers. So every time that I listen to it, I just remember summer there and a lot of memories. I feel just quiet, calm and happy. Even if it’s a sad song – I don’t know how, but I feel happy, because it also relates to a lot of stuff that has happened in my life before. I hope you enjoy it!

 

Julia 

Hey guys, my name is Julia and I’m one of the Global Leaders at Bellevue College. I’m from Taiwan and I’m studying Business. I want to share this song called “If Only” by Ozi. He is a Taiwanese singer. This song is basically about rewinding time, and what he would do if he could talk to his grandma. I hope you like the song!

 

Kelan

Hi, my name is Kelan and I come from China. This is my third year in the U.S and my second quarter at Bellevue College. I’m studying Digital Media Arts. I’m also a singer and songwriter. The song I’m going to introduce is actually a song that I released six years ago. It’s called “Flower”. This was one of the few songs that I wrote when I just started songwriting on guitar. Writing songs to me is like writing journals. I like to document my thoughts with melodies, and this song is one of the examples. A flower is a metaphor for thoughts that come and go and never settle for anything. It doesn’t belong anywhere. A flower is free. It could go to any place, just like your thoughts. This song was awarded the top 20 singles by the Singapore Freshmusic Award in 2017. Please enjoy and I hope you like it!

 

Myo Han Tun Kyaw

Hello everyone, my name is Myo Han Tun Kyaw and I’m one of the Global Leaders from Burma. I’m currently a computer science student at Bellevue College. Today, I would like to share a song from my country called “Yone Kyi Yarg” by Lay Phyu . Although the song was very popular in 2010, it got popular during the protesting stage of the Spring Revolution, when we protested against the military government.
So the reason why this song holds so much meaning for Burmese people, is because it tells us that we have to believe in what we are doing. And although we might have regrets and losses we still need to keep going to reach the final goal. In this song, people are literally sacrificing their life for this thing called “belief”. It is relevant during the protests, because people are dying on the streets due to the military government.
Those people are fighting for freedom and we all are. So it helps us not to give up easily on our rights and freedom. The song is motivating and it’s not only for protesting, you can listen to it anytime to get you motivated. It’s a really good song. Enjoy!

 

Nada and Leda

Nada: Hi everybody my name is Nada.
Leda: Hi everybody my name is Leda.
Nada: And we are from Italy. I’m currently studying at Bellevue College for my bachelor’s degree in digital marketing. I love this song called “A Te” because it truly reminds me of the bond I have with my family.
Nada and Leda: In Italy, the family “La Famiglia” is really important.

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