When was the last time you encountered a jazz fusion project led by a harp? Katara’s debut impresses with its blend of psychedelia and remarkable songwriting. Dive into our conversation with the artist below!
First of all, congrats for such an impressive debut album. Could you describe your sound in 3 words?
Moody, psychedelic, detailed
Tell us a few things about These days. What is the main idea behind it?
“These Days” is an effort to put out an album that is centered around the harp and the drums. As we are the two members writing all of the music. It’s a culmination of years of work and the various kinds of music we love and a testament to our lives and our friendship with each other. Push the bounds of how the harp is perceived and to blend genres in an interesting, seamless way.
The harp is not a typical instrument in jazz. What led you to choose the harp as the centerpiece of your ensemble?
I have just played the harp my whole life. It just happens to be in the instrument I play, and I just happen to also like jazz. So it was less of a choice and more of, this is just what is available to me.
Can you tell us about your musical backgrounds and how they contribute to the unique sound of Katara?
I, the harpist, come from a classical back ground. And the drummer comes from more of jazz/soul background. Put that together and you get groove based music, but in unpredictable forms and really strong melodies.
A song you would pay to hear for the first time again?
Mahler Symphony No. 5, the adagietto
Your music feels beautifully experimental. Should music as a form of art always challenge the listener?
I think that music should have a balance. I think at times it should feel easy, and put you at rest. And other times, it should make you question and challenge you and open your mind to new things.
What isn’t a crime but should be?
Being rude
What’s next for you?
Album number two!
Thank you!
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