Sound Off!’s third semi final was a show to see, as the new batch of youth came to show their talents. The show was full of young music scene veterans ready to see who the final act to advance to the finals would be. We all felt the energy as the first act graced the stage with confidence and soul. 

Talaya., a Seattle local, presented poise as she exhibited multifaceted skills. This gem was the act everyone was ready to see as she showed us her ability to produce, write, and sing, using tracks and a beat pad to complement her voice. Her artistic versatility set a mood, giving the crowd the exhale we all needed after a long week. Presenting mellow yellow r&b glows through her lyrics and vocals, her set emanated excellence and a bright future as she opened the night.

Following Talaya., jazz musician Seven Sky continued the smooth vibe with his tenor saxophone. He added versatility to Sound Off! by being a solo saxophonist, keyboardist, and EWI player. Creating his own songs from scratch, you got to admire his skill and the jazzy tunes of his brass instrument. 

The night kept its momentum as Mirabai Kukathas —comprised of Kukathas on vocals, Zoser on guitar, Grafton Downs on bass, and Freyja Rieger on drums — brought indie energy to the stage. This act reminded me of Colbie Caillat’s “Bubbly,” as their spiritual conversations and storytelling brought the crowd in. Feeling elated and at ease, this band was one who could move us all into a state of peace and chillness. 

Last of the night, punk trio David’s Van — guitarist Dominic Ermi, bassist Luke Sorensen, and drummer Aidan Lambros — came to the stage as we all were eager to hear what they had to offer. This band was awesome as they synchronized their electric guitars. It was like they were having a conversation back and forth — lick for lick — in a call and response. Full of energy and rock, this band was in their element as they displayed rare and raw flair. The judges thought so, too, and David’s Van took home the crown and advanced to the finals. 

Mirabai Kukathas took home the wildcard pick, but we’ll have to wait to see which wildcard band makes the final. Due to COVID-19, Sound Off! has been postponed until further notice.

R&b songstress Talaya. opens the third semifinal. // All photos by Dan Ray.

With emotive lyrics, Talaya. captures the audience.

Using only a beat pad and her vocals, Talaya. creates r&b tapestries of sound.

Talaya. sways to the beat.

After four songs, Talaya. closes an evocative set with heartfelt lyricism about self love.

Seven Sky takes the stage with his electronic wind instrument (EWI).

Sky switches over to his tenor sax.

A one-man band, Sky weaves vocals, keys, sax, and EWI together to create dark, jazzy tracks.

Sky picks up the EWI again, to cheers from the crowd.

Sky closes his set with a smile.

Mirabai Kukathas brings up the third set with 70s-inspired indie pop.

Bassist Grafton Downs sits into a groove.

Kukathas's honest and bold songwriting earned her the wildcard pick.

Zoser, who performed at Sound Off! as a solo artist last year, joins Kukathas on guitar.

Kukathas leans into her set.

Punk trio David's Van takes the final set of the night.

Dominic Ermi fronts the group.

Grafton Downs joins the band on stage to help the audience with some lyrics.

David's Van had the crowd dancing and moshing throughout their entire set.

Ermi and bassist Luke Sorensen get close.

Fans reach toward Ermi during a guitar solo.

Aidan Lambros smashes on drums.

The band has a uniquely humorous punk vibe, with tracks like "B.Y.O.G. (Bring Your Own Grandma)" and "Conscious Frat Guys."

Ermi shreds.

Sorensen glows at the end of the set. // All photos by Dan Ray.