The Kool Katz
Me Gusta Como Bailas
Ank records

Who are the Kool Katz, you ask? Well let me introduce them to you. The Kool Katz is a new exciting band from that traditional hot bed of trend setting music, the Bay Area. The Bay Area has long been known for turning out the best and hottest groups especially, in regards to Latin music. Groups like Malo, Sapo, Azteca, Cal Tjader, Pete Escovedo, Tower of Power and of course the legendary Carlos Santana. The Kool Katz in my opinion are destined to follow that distinguished list of names. Based in San Jose, CA this group of seasoned musicians together with their creative original sound will quickly garner much deserved attention. When I first heard their music from a promotional 2-song disc I was blown away.

Having been in the music scene for many years I have seen many bands come and go. A lot of groups had the desire to succeed and for whatever reason did not follow through. Others lacked the organization and dedication necessary to succeed. Others even though were very good did not create a name for themselves due to a lack of creativity. The Kool Katz however, bring to you a style of their own. They mix the cool sounds of Jazz, hot driving Latin rhythm and Rock n Roll influences to create what they call Latin Razz. Call it what you may, Latin Jazz, Chicano Salsa or Latin Razz, this is exciting musica. They create irresistible and infectious rhythms that will satisfy the most discriminating listener. What makes their music so appealing is that it is all original material. Founded by Art Galvan, a seasoned guitarist and composer, Art's intention in forming the Kool Katz in1998 was to be one of the best Latin groups recording and performing original music. I firmly believe Art and the Kool Katz have accomplished this. Check out the beautiful vocal work by Kelly Galvan. You will be reminded by the smooth sounds of Gloria Estefan and Selena who happen to be her strongest musical influences. Throughout this exciting CD "Me Gusta Como Bailas" you will hear superb musicianship by talented and experienced performers.

The horn section along with driving Latin percussion makes this group swing! All original material is what impresses me most about the Kool Katz. They create moving melodies and toe-tapping arrangements. Art Galvan's solid guitar licks keep the music soulful. Kelly's expressive and dynamic vocals will delight you and will make you feel her passion. The tunes all speak for themselves and have such a rich appeal. Not since the Malo's classic hit "Suavecito" or Sapo's barrio favorite "Can't Make It" has there been a tune that mixes the sounds of R&B, Latin and Soul to create a Chicano Love anthem.

I firmly believe the tune "I Will Do Most Anything" will become a classic recording and put the Kool Katz on the Latino music map. Written by Art and Kelly, this song is simply amazing. The kind of tune that you will want to make note of what you are doing when you hear it for the first time. Additionally, "Style of our own", "Dazzed and Confused", "Me Gusta como Bailas", with it's touch of West Coast Salsa and "Please Stay With Me" showcase the group's versatility and solidifies that they have indeed found a style of their own.

Another favorite is the infectious cha cha "Your Love Just Moves Me"--WOW! This tune will definitely remind you of the early Chicano sounds of the groups Tierra, Malo, Sapo and El Chicano. Listen to the tight arrangement of the horns complimented by the very sabroso guitar--nice, very vice. Two other gems that I know will be crowd pleasers are the soulful "I Can't Let Go" and the cool "Kool Summer." Talk about Latino soul! The Kool Katz are oozing with Latin soul and have created their own thing.

I just wish all bands had the swing, sound and creativity that the Kool Katz do. I can't recommend this fine recording enough. Introduce all that you can to the Kool Katz sound. After all, they do have a style all their own. It is without a doubt so sabroso!

For more information on the Kool Katz visit them at their website at http://www.thekoolkatz.com

The Kool Katz are:

Richard Martinez- Timbales
Bobby Trejo - Drums & Vocals
Art Gavlan - Lead Guitar & Vocals
Kelly Galvan - Lead Vocals
Juan Carlos Alva - Bass & Vocals
Jay Gomez - Piano & Vocals
Ray Espinoza - Saxophone
Jess Gomez- - Trumpet
John Escalera - Trumpet
Jeff Walton - Trombone
Darrel Gardere - Congas & Percussion

By Erik Chico Manqueros
Host & Producer of The Latin Style of Jazz and Contributing writer
Latin Style Magazine, LatinJazzClub.com