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Katchafire

by Anuhea Yagi

April 14, 2011

I have agonized over what Katchafire means. I understand it’s short for “catch a fire,” and they began their musical career as a Bob Marley cover band (what modern reggae band doesn’t?). But what does it really mean? Marley’s “catch a fire” was a veritable “go to hell,” a sentiment he expressed to slavedrivers. And surely this sociopolitical awareness is applicable, with songs like “Frisk Me Down.” Or perhaps it’s the katchafire of a bonfire at the beach surrounded by family and friends, the elusive ideal of “Get Away.” The band’s easy rhythms and laid-back vibe certainly exemplify this meaning. Or, it could absolutely be plain old catching fire, a reference to the band’s burning passion and drive, which has earned them the title of New Zealand’s hardest-working band. An alternative, of course, would be an implication of 420 friendliness, a la “Collie Herb.” Or maybe I’m just obsessing. Whatever it means, Katchafire is awesome, plain and simple. Be sure to catch this show, where they’ll be performing alongside Ooklah the Moc and Rebel Souljahz. 242-7469; mauiarts.org [Ynez Tongson]