John Ovrebo
Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Cow Bell, Viborslap
Being the Son of the our church organist and choir director, I was introduced to music at a very young age. I started playing sax in 1973 because I was a really bad flute player! Most of my experience has been in Big Band Jazz (Richard Clark Big Band 14 years, Riptide Big Band 10 years, along with several large church orchestras, collage and community bands.)
I've always had a passion for Blues and Soul music! Joining Soul Cats has allowed me to explore my Soul Side! But playing Cow Bell has been the ultimate musical experience!
Lillian Street
Singer
Raised on her mama’s harmonies and later classically trained in high school choir, Lillian’s been belting out tunes her whole life. She’s rocked the stage with the Soul Cats for nearly a decade, and she swears the best view is from behind the mic—seeing the crowd laughing, dancing, and forgetting their troubles for a while.
The Band
Greg Gorman
Bari Sax, Alto Sax, Vocals
AKA G-Money. A life long musician dedicated to giving back to his community. Greg began his musical journey in high school band. As a integral part of the Santa Ynez music scene, Greg has played sax in the Valley Wing Ensemble, and is one of the founding members of Soul Cats. His commitment to sharing music with the next generation led him to direct the Youth and Praise worship group at the Old Mission Santa Ynez in Solvang.
You can't miss Greg with his light-up gold shoes!
MICHAEL ROBERTS
Trumpet, Band Manager
Born Sheffield England, Played trumpet from the age of Seven. The trumpet was a gift from my Grandfather who at the time was a famous drummer in England, who played numerous times at Royal variety shows. At the age of 10, played Solo at the Royal Albert Hall, and again at the age of 14 at a mass band concert. Both times in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen. At the age of 14 passed all exams for The Royal Collage of Music and learned to play numerous instruments. At 17 years of age and on, played professionally for touring bands, along with being a Session Musician. Over this period of time, Michael played with a number of top recording stars and traveled the Globe.
Akuda
Keyboard
Akuda brings a fun, free style keyboard sound to the band.
He doesn't use music. Akuda just plays what he feels and it always sounds good!
Miguel
Bass
The calm one on stage and off, Miguel Enciso is a true student of music. His journey began at age nine, and he quickly became a versatile multi-instrumentalist. While he's the anchor on the bass for the band, his playing is influenced by a diverse palette of sounds—everything from the grooves of reggae and the improvisation of jazz to the timeless structure of classical music and the power of classic rock. Miguel's smooth and steady style is the heartbeat of the band's music.
`Jo-Ann Street
AKA Momma Soul Cat
Singer
At 70 and feeling more alive than ever, Mama Jo, Born in New Orleans, is known on stage as Momma Soul Cat. She brings decades of wisdom, a whole lot of Motown spirit, and a voice that can both soothe and set a room on fire! She's not just a singer - she's a living testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the joy of honoring each new chapter.
John Lee
Harmonica
John Lee after 50 years in Santa Barbara, moved w his wife Dana to Solvang 5 yrs ago.
Joined soul cats on the invite of his good friend Michael Roberts.
John has played mostly blues rock
(SRV etc.!) with numerous Santa Barbara bands, but has mastered some soul cats hits with a new twist.
Watch out he’ll come right to your table!
Melanie
Singer
Born to perform, Melanie has been gracing stages since the tender age of 3 in her hometown of North Carolina. Her musical journey has taken her to various cities, including Las Vegas where she fronted the punk rock band, The Objex.
A move to Solvang, CA and a chance meeting with Soul Cats manager Michael Roberts. Enchanted with the band's energetic vibe, Melanie joined the band.
Melanie found a new groove with The Soul Cats. Her dynamic energy leaves the audiences eager for more!
Todd
Lead Guitar, Singer
A multi-instrumentalist and 3rd generation Californian, Todd has played guitar and bass in everything from solo shows to jazz ensembles and big bands to rock and funk bands (including 15 years as bassist in a Steely Dan tribute band in LA). Sliding into the guitar chair with Soul Cats is somewhat coming full circle, playing tunes that are part of his musical DNA.