Katerpillar's music meant to get people moving

Today, members of the group have all combined their distinct talents and techniques to produce what Henao describes as a “groove, rock, funky, soul style.”

 

“It’s different.  Our band is different,” said Henao.  “We wanted to create our own unique style.”  With its upbeat rhythm and pulsating beat, Katerpillar’s music is intended to invigorate people so that they want to get up on their feet and move.

 

Over time, the band (which also includes Carl Morelli on drums and percussionist Jay Pacheco) has developed a core group of fans.  Based in Los Angeles, the group enjoys performing at local venues like The Viper Room (Sept. 25) and House of Blues, amongst others.  But if you’re short on cash, (or underage) you can enjoy their music free, on the third Wednesday of every month at the Northridge Farmers' Market, which is held in the Northridge Mall parking lot.

 

During the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, Soriano and Henao were constantly surrounded by dance, including the street dance style commonly called “breakdancing.”  But whereas some people say breakdancing eventually died---and is now seeing a resurrection---Henao will tell you that the dance form never died; throughout the years, there has always been an avid group of people who have been systematically and painstakingly developing the dance form.  “It’s been a progression over the years,” explained Henao.

 

Among the proponents of the dance form is DJ Hazze, a local performer, dance instructor, and choreographer who has literally travelled the world spreading the news of breakdancing, and often blending in some homespun hip-hop.  Hazze, whose own recent dance credits include the stage show “BLAZE: The Street Dance Sensation”, will soon go on tour in Europe.  But before he goes, as a member of Katerpillar, he will perform his scratch tracks and raps at a few of the band’s upcoming gigs.  Much of Katerpillar’s music is closely tied to dance, with a percussive momentum that compliments the power moves many b-boys strive to master.  Henao said that one of the goals of Katerpillar’s music is inspire people to dance.

 

“There is so much fun associated with dancing,” he said  “and people should have fun.”

 

Realizing that dance and music do have a great appeal to young people, Katerpillar has in recent months, joined forces with Heroes of Life, a non-profit organization that works to keep kids off the streets and out of trouble.  The organization does this by creating programs that teach fine and performing arts, as well as production skills that are commonly used by professionals behind-the-scenes.  Eager to offer their time and assistance, Katerpillar has worked with Heroes of Life at various community events, including those held at Hansen Dam in July and El Cariso Park in August.  In November, the band, along with Heroes of Life, is scheduled to appear at Crescenta Valley Park.

 

The eclectic music created by Katerpillar is intended to appeal to people from all walks of life.  Coincidentally, the band itself is a diverse group of people who are from varied ethnic and racial backgrounds, including Latino, African American, Caucasian and Asian musicians.

 

“We want to show that people can all come together as one,” Henao said.

 

(Katerpillar will perform at the Northridge Farmers Market from 5:00-8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 22.  On Saturday, Sept. 25, catch them at The Viper Room in Hollywood.  For booking information and additional upcoming events visit: 

http://www.myspace.com/kpillar  )