The Strangetones Bring Their Crime-A-Billy Story to Portland Sound Legacy
On Friday, August 28, 2026, Portland Sound Legacy welcomed Andy Strange and Julie Strange of The Strangetones to KBOO 90.7 FM for a lively and revealing conversation with hosts Robert Davis and Michael LeClair.
The interview followed the band’s live KBOO performance and explored the origins of one of Portland’s most distinctive musical identities. Andy and Julie discussed how The Strangetones came together, how their creative partnership developed, and how the band built a sound and visual world that was unmistakably its own.
At the center of the conversation was the band’s self-described “Crime-A-Billy” style—a spirited combination of blues, rockabilly, surf guitar, vintage rhythm and blues, cinematic storytelling, mystery, humor, and film-noir atmosphere. Andy and Julie explained how these influences became more than a musical formula. They helped create memorable characters, theatrical performances, and songs that often feel like miniature movies.
The discussion also examined the making of the band’s recordings, the relationship between music and storytelling, and the chemistry required to make a distinctive concept feel natural onstage. Julie reflected on the importance of guitar, vocals, presentation, and performance, while Andy discussed songwriting, arrangements, rhythm, and the process of finding musicians who understood the larger Strangetones vision.
Robert and Michael invited Andy and Julie to look back on Portland’s blues and roots community, the venues that helped local bands find an audience, and the loyal fans who have supported The Strangetones through the years. They also spoke about originality, longevity, changes in the music business, and what younger musicians can learn from building a lasting band and community.
The conversation captured the humor, imagination, musicianship, and independent spirit that have kept The Strangetones creatively vital for more than two decades.
We sincerely thank Andy and Julie Strange for sharing their music, memories, and remarkable Crime-A-Billy world with Portland Sound Legacy and KBOO listeners.
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