New Zealand's #1 group, Katchafire reaches a new level of musical depth and maturity on their upcoming release. Say What You're Thinking brings 12 original tracks with jazz, pop, rock and even hip-hop influences enhancing a solid roots reggae foundation. The harmonies are tighter; the songwriting more compelling, and the band's instrumental prowess is up a couple of notches. Touring the world and finding new fans all over the Pacific, Hawai'i, Europe and the mainland U.S. in the past year and a half has seasoned this group and expanded their musical horizons. The results are truly world class.
Katchafire is well known for trading instruments among themselves during their marathon live shows. This versatility is demonstrated as never before on Say What You're Thinking, with no less than five different band members sharing lead vocal duties. Front man Logan Bell contributes four tunes including Meant To Be, an instant classic love song already getting major airplay on all the Hawaiian Islands. Jamey Ferguson delivers his unmistakable raspy leads on four more, including the thoughtful title track and gospel-tinged Doesn't Anybody. Percussionist Leon Davey shows off his vocal skills on Now Girl and Love Letter, as does drummer Jordan Bell on J Dubb. And keyboardist Haani Totorewa shines on This World, a timely piece of social commentary that's positive and uplifting without being preachy.
With double platinum status and over 100,000 records sold in their home market, Katchafire graced the cover of New Zealand Musician earlier this year. Last year they conquered Hawai'i, becoming the first non-local band ever to headline the KCCN Birthday Bash at the Waikiki Shell. Their previous albums Revival and Slow-Burning hit the national Reggae and World Music charts hard. With the musical evolution evident on their latest release, combined with their relentless tour schedule and phenomenal live shows, it's only a matter of time before the whole world is Katchafire country.