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Katalyst

About this Artist

Every decade or so a new band comes to the forefront and changes the course of music, this decade is no exception and sees the rise of one of the most talented, diverse collectives of musicians, writers, composers, and producers otherwise known as Katalyst. The brainchild of world-renowned drummer/composer/ producer Greg Paul, this eight-piece ensemble hailing from Inglewood, CA showcases an eclectic mix of experimental contemporary jazz.

The collective comprises of pianist Brandon Cordoba, saxophonist David Otis, Grammy-award-winning trombonist Jonah Levine, keyboard/pianist Brian Hargrove, percussionist Ahmad Dubose, uptight bassist Corbin Jones, bass guitarist Marlon Spears and Katalyst founder and drummer Greg Paul.

In 2020 during the height of the pandemic, Katalyst released their critically acclaimed debut album entitled “Nine Lives” a free-spirited instrumental jazz album that truly encapsulates the pulse of Los Angeles. Conceived during impromptu Sunday Jam Sessions at their home base in Inglewood, the title is personal as it documents the lives and fusion of these nine renaissance men, equally yoked through 10 tracks that transport you on a musical journey unlike any other.

As a collective, Katalyst has played live at Jazz Is Dead as a backing band to legends Lonnie Liston Smith, Doug Carn, Henry Franklin, Gary Bartz and Ronnie Laws. The group’s popular local residencies have earned them legions of hometown fans. Wander in any night that they’re on at the Miracle in Inglewood, or the Townhouse in Venice, and you’ll be greeted with a packed house who have come to know and love the world-class music that the Kats produce.

As a cohesive unit Katalyst represents the open potential of networking and collaboration. Together, they have brought each other to new levels and their work has earned them a place amongst the pantheon of Los Angeles Jazz icons who have enriched the genre’s fabric. This is evidenced on their collaboration with producers Adrian Younge and Ali Shaheed Muhammad for Jazz Is Dead.