The Soul Cats Band

David Smith – Tenor Saxophonist

David Smith is the heart and soul of The Soul Cats' dynamic sound on the tenor saxophone. Originally from Ridgely, Maryland, David grew up moving every three years due to his father’s career in the Army, which deeply influenced his musical journey.

He began playing the alto saxophone at age 13 while stationed in Ft. Knox, Kentucky, and quickly became involved in the school's marching and pep bands. By the 11th grade, David was already playing in church services in Zweibrücken, Germany, solidifying his love for blending music with worship.

After high school, David moved to Savannah, Georgia, where he attended Armstrong Atlantic State University and continued to develop his musical talents while performing for various churches. Between 1997 and 2017, David served on active duty in the United States Air Force, where he performed in numerous jazz, R&B, and funk bands while playing for church services and important military ceremonies, including the National Anthem at retirements and graduations.

Throughout his career, David has added both the tenor sax and soprano sax to his collection, drawing inspiration from genres like gospel, jazz, funk, and R&B. He currently performs with multiple bands across the central coast, and his passion for music is matched only by his continued involvement in church worship bands.

Carissa Look – Singer

Carissa Look is a powerhouse vocalist whose unique voice and stage presence bring the band’s performances to life. Bio Coming Soon

Bob Thronburgh – Drummer

Jo-Ann Street Born in Kansas to his father, Dave Peck, who was a professional musician band leader, and music teacher, Bob got his start pulling the bass drum cart for his father's high school marching band at the age of six. By the time he was eight years old he had graduated to marching snare playing in Central Coast parades and band camps. As a teen, Bob started several of his own bands, such as Four Play, Frog, Forest, and Motor Head, covering 70's rock. In the '90's Bob and his family relocated to Casper, Wyoming where he put together heavy metal bands, Strych IX and Graven Image, and a power trio named Trilogy playing all original music in local venues and state competitions. Returning to the Central Coast in the early 2000's, Bob and his wife, Vicky, formed an acoustic band called The Believers with Bob on the jembe and Vicky on percussion and back up vocals. Covering old school country music, blues, and rock and roll, The Believers played local venues such as Solvang's Royal Copenhagen Hotel and The Touch and Los Alamos' Ghostriders and Steel Horse saloons. In 2014 Bob was introduced to Michael Roberts and invited to play drums for The Soulcats. Bio Coming Soon

Dave Yarnel – Keyboard, vocals

Dave Yarnel is our keyboard player whose rhythmic and melodic playing shapes much of the band's distinctive sound. With over 20 years of experience, John’s musical influences range from classic rock to blues and jazz.

Keyboard player/singer for The Soul Cats.Originally from Chicago(blues capital)Illinois.Number one priority is entertaining audiences.He is quoted as saying," If at the end of the night I have contributed anything towards putting on a show for the people, then my work is done.Hope to see you at our next engagement.

John Ovrebo – Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Cow Bell, Viborslap

Jane Smith is the backbone of The Soul Cats' rhythm section. A gifted Sax player, he provides the groove that keeps the band tight and locked in.

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!