The Cat Empire

About

The Cat Empire is a genre-defying force of musical alchemy, blending jazz, ska, reggae, funk, and Latin rhythms into a sound as vibrant as their live performances. Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, the six-piece band has spent over two decades crafting a global reputation for their infectious energy and genre-fluid creativity. Their music is a celebration of cultural diversity, with horns, percussion, and multilingual lyrics weaving a tapestry of global influences. Since their formation in 1999, The Cat Empire has evolved from underground jazz-club darlings to international festival headliners. Their self-titled debut album (2003) catapulted them to fame, with hits like "Hello" and "The Chariot" becoming anthems of a generation. Over the years, they’ve released nine studio albums, each showcasing their ability to reinvent their sound while staying true to their roots. The band’s cultural impact lies in their ability to unite audiences across continents, transcending language barriers with their universal themes of joy, resilience, and unity. Collaborations with artists like John Butler and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra highlight their versatility, while their electrifying live shows have cemented their status as one of the most dynamic acts in modern music. In recent years, The Cat Empire has embraced a new chapter, with founding members Felix Riebl and Ollie McGill leading a refreshed lineup. Their 2022 album *Where the Angels Fall* marked a bold evolution, blending their signature sound with introspective lyricism. As they continue to tour globally, The Cat Empire remains a testament to the power of music to inspire and connect.