Strong LAC + Blues = ?

[Corbett]

I might start by looking into LACs that are noted as being particularly urban, or particularly funky, or both

The University of Puget Sound could be another “both”. UPS is a largish LAC (despite the name) in the Seattle metro area (actually Tacoma). They are funky and appear to have a large music program, including jazz.

https://www.pugetsound.edu/academics/departments-and-programs/undergraduate/music/ensembles/instrumental-groups/jazz/