Crosstown Blues Band is perhaps the most commanding blues band in the greater Spokane area. Assembled from some of the best players around, it’s sound is like no other. The band’s style is constructed of the smooth resonance of Chicago and the raw power of Texas, blending together into a full-toned, tight musical unit.
Bob Tortorici is a soulful harmonica player with wide-ranging influences, including everyone from Kim Wilson to William Clarke. This gives his sound a well-rounded glow that is always sure to turn heads. His vocals are polished, yet gravelly, giving him the perfect sound to front this band. He's played with many of the Spokane areas best musicians including some of the finest players in the greater Cincinnati, northern Kentucky region.
Keith Lewis is the quiet man behind the keyboards but don't let that fool you. Keith is a bonified Blues Keyboard Legend. His style comes from his extensive knowledge of funk and R&B. He can be heard playing blistering solos and holding down tight, harmonious melodies. He has played with such acts as Cafe Blue, Soul Proprietor, and Pat Coast, and is well known for being one of the tastiest players around.
Kevin Olsonberg is not just any drummer. He commands respect in any style of music he plays, from blues to rock, and even to country. He has played with such established acts as Delta 88, Blueprint, and Trace County. His style has the shuffle and bang of Texas blues, but also has the supple dynamics of jazz, making the rhythm section of Crosstown all the more rich. Proof that he can hang with the big dogs can be seen at any Crosstown show.
Russ Schneider, the rock side of this blues-rock band’s sound, is a competent guitar player. His influences stay rooted deeply in the blues, with such players as Warren Haynes and Billy Gibbons, but his playing says otherwise. He is known for being a pentatonic master, endlessly playing Clapton licks and Winter riffs. He pushes his Les Paul to a dirty extreme, while blasting out stinging solos, and proves his worth therein.
Art Quine, bass guitar extraordinaire, is a long-time veteran of the Spokane music scene. He has played with such bands as D.A. and the Cruisers, The New Desotos, and Papa Glenn’s Border Run Blues Band. He prefers to drive the rhythm section with a Tobias bass and a Hartke amp, adding to the already fat sound of the band.
The band continues to thrill listeners with highly energized, vivacious live shows and danceable tunes. This has gained them a Growing following, which is reflected by the band acquiring “Best New Blues Band” award in 2005, and numerous "Inland Empire Blues Society" nominations in 2006.