Australia’s The Cat Empire traveled far just to play for Atlanta at Terminal West, or so it would seem by their enthusiasm to be there and fans’ familiarity with the band’s music. Renowned for their fusion of ska, Latin, funk, reggae and jazz, it’s difficult to predict what the next song will be like. Regardless of the style, it didn’t take long for fans to start dancing and getting their arms in the air.
Band purists know that after 20 years, the band reshaped itself in recent year with new members. One significant addition is Grace Barbé, who has an extensive musical background and provides another voice in addition to her bass grooves.
Another is Neda Rahmani, who handles percussion and vocals and whose smiles and placement up front provides charms the audience.
The focal point, though, is original member Felix Reibl, who sings, plays guitar and adds percussion. Although he’s gracious with giving others the spotlight, and is often to the side himself, it’s clearly he that brings the vibe and energy that fans expect.
The band’s more experimental days are behind them, but fans don’t miss out on instrumental performances. The band clicks on all cylinders in its commitment to music that can, and often is, danced to, but there are glimpses where they just get to enjoy themselves, such as a jam between keyboardist Ollie McGill and drummer Daniel Farrugia. A personal highlight from this show was “Steal the Light” which captured the best of the band.
The band tours North America through the end of June, so bring your dancing shoes and hope for enough room to express yourself!
Setlist:
Encore:
Boston’s Bermuda Search Party, until recently The Q-Tip Bandits, opened the evening. They proved a great opener for getting the arriving crowd moving, an easier thing when the band members themselves are active and visibly enjoy performing.
