Doug Ebert

BASSIST/COMPOSER

Jazz bassist and composer, Doug Ebert began his musical journey at age 4 in Erie, PA, studying multiple instruments before discovering his passion for bass at Marquette University. Under the mentorship of Rich Kremmer, Berkeley Fudge, and Don Linke at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, Doug became a fixture in Milwaukee’s jazz scene, performing at venues like Jazz Estate, Summerfest, and Jazz in the Park.

In 2007, Doug released his debut album, Times Change, then relocated to San Francisco, where he spent 17 years recording original music and performing at premier venues like Yoshi’s, SF Jazz and Kuumbwa Jazz Center. His album Poor Dog and Trials and Tribulations showcases his West Coast quartet’s dynamic sound.

Now based in Denver, CO, Doug co-founded the fusion trio, Something Out Of, alongside drummer Mike Zislis and guitarist, Steven Jon. The group focuses on original modern jazz fusion rooted in improvisation, groove and creative risk.

Steven Jon

GUITARIST/COMPOSER

Born in New York and shaped by  its raw, electric energy, Steven Jon is a guitarist whose playing is rooted in improvisation and conversations in sound.  His style blends jazz fusion, funk, rock, and spiritual groove into something deeply personal and unpredictable. Steven’s breakout 2022 release, Spiritual Fire has been well received cementing his place as a genre-bending musical force. His earlier release, Rumblefish Devastation pushed emotional boundaries with a darker, cinematic edge.

As a guitar instructor and lifelong student of the instrument, Steven brings both technical command and emotional intuition to every note. Whether on stage or in the studio, he’s not chasing perfection- he’s chasing the moment. The risk. The truth. His work with Something Out Of reflects his belief that music is a living, breathing force- a dialogue without a script.  Every performance is different.  Every track is a journey.

Armando Lopez

SAXOPHONE/COMPOSER

Armando Lopez is a Denver-based multi-instrumentalist and composer whose sonic voice bridges the soulful depths of jazz, funk and the spiritual power of global traditions.  A driving force in the Denver jazz and funk scene since 2010, Armando has made a name for himself through his dynamic live performances, genre-defying improvisation, and deep- rooted connection to the New Orleans brass band tradition where he is widely recognized for his commanding soprano saxophone work.

As a founding member of the high-energy ensemble Brothers of Brass, Armando fuses street-born brass with experimental jazz textures, channeling the lineage of artists like John Coltrain, Yusef Lateef, Sun Ra, Jimi Hendrix, and Carlos Santana.  His unique approach melds raw power with spiritual intent, making every performance a journey. Armando has performed at world-renowned venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheater and shared the stage with luminaries including Jon Batiste and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. With a deep reverence for music as a force of unity and transcendence, he continues to push the boundaries of jazz fusion while honing the roots that shaped him. Most recently, Armando joined Something Out Of, bringing his signature sound and spirit to the group’s sonic journey.

JON WIRTZ

PIANIST/COMPOSER

Jon Wirtz’s ongoing career reflects a dynamic evolution as an artist. Known for blending acoustic piano with ambient effects and emotional crescendos, his music weaves simple melodies with tasteful improvisation, ranging from classical to avant-garde, and familiar to experimental. With a style that defies genre, Wirtz creates rich sonic landscapes that are both contemplative and dynamic.

His journey includes collaborations with Grammy-winning producers Malcolm Burn, Steve Berlin, John Macy, and mentor, Art Lande. He has shared stages with artists like Justin Timberlake, Gregory Alan Isakov, Victor Wooten, Buddy Guy, and George Porter, Jr. In 2024, he was recognized as a Most Distinguished Musician in the IBLA Grand Prize International Music Competition for his title track of Beautiful Illusion. Jon’s wide-ranging versatility has also been featured on The Late Show with David Letterman, Ellen, Lopez Tonight and more. While involved in numerous musical endeavors, Wirtz has been an instrumental part in shaping the distinct sound of Something Out Of.

Michael Zislis

DRUMMER/PERCUSSIONIST/COMPOSER

Mike Zislis began his drum career in Philadelphia as a part of the rock, funk and R&B scene. While playing with the University of Pittsburgh Jazz Big Band, Mike had the great fortune of studying with legendary drummer Kenny Clarke, who was guest conducting. During this time Mike frequented Philadelphia’s iconic Gert’s Lounge and played during open jazz jam sessions. At Gert’s, Mike was also blessed to hang with Philly Joe Jones and talked with him about the art of playing jazz drums. Mike recalls on one occasion he was eager to show Philly Joe how he could play a fast polyrhythmic pattern. Alas, Philly Joe was not impressed and said in deadpan, “All that stuff don’t mean sh-t, it’s got to tell a story” Hah! Lesson learned!

Mike has played with many groups over the years ranging from jazz, jazz fusion, rock, R&B, funk, Latin jazz and eclectic World Music bands featuring Steelpan and various percussion instruments. Most recently, Mike has been collaborating as a co-founding member of the Denver based original modern jazz fusion group, Something Out Of, with an all-original album set for release in 2025.