Katchafire

Katchafire is a reggae and roots reggae group from Hamilton, New Zealand, active since 1997. The band is associated with New Zealand roots reggae and draws on a distinctly Māori-influenced sound.

Formation and line-up

The group begins with members jamming in a garage and develops from a mix of family connections and different musical backgrounds. The line-up includes Logan Bell on guitar and vocals, Jamey Ferguson on keyboards, saxophone and vocals, Hāni Totorewa on keyboards, guitar and vocals, Grenville Bell on lead guitar, Ara Adams-Tamatea on bass, Jordan Bell on drums, and Leon Davey on percussion, harmonica and vocals. Other members associated with the band include Tere Ngarua, Jamey Fergusson, Wiremu Barriball, Roy Kaiki, Travis Te Hau, John Kennedy, Shane Maraki and Jerry Taukamo.

Releases and chart success

Katchafire releases two albums that achieve double platinum and platinum status respectively. Revival goes double platinum in New Zealand in 2003, reaches the Top 5 of the international Billboard charts in the United States, and produces six singles. Slowburning also goes platinum and produces three singles.

Tours and performances

The band tours widely in New Zealand and overseas, including seven international tours. It plays three tours in New Caledonia, one in Fiji, one in Hawaii, and ten Australian tours. Katchafire also tours in the United States and Europe, with dates in Hawaii, London, Wiltshire, Edinburgh, Bristol, Wales, Oxfordshire, Cork and Dublin.

Collaborations and festival appearances

Katchafire opens for and performs alongside The Wailers, Third World, Alpha Blondy, Shaggy, Damian Marley, Renee Geyer, Deceptikonz, Kora, House of Shem, Fat Freddys Drop, Salmonella Dub, Black Seeds and Trinity Roots. The band has a strong presence at WOMAD and Big Day Out festivals.

Profile

Katchafire is described as one of New Zealand’s hardest working bands and is known for music that brings together social and political themes, hardship, relaxation and reflection, with a style that encourages sing-alongs and audience participation.