Kath and the Tomkats
The Okanagan’s very own award winning band, including Best Local Musician/Music Group, through the Okanagan Life Magazine “Readers Choice Awards.”
The members of Kath and the Tomkats collectively have an impressive resume to say the least. Kath, Walt, Jacob, Craig and John bring with them individual talents that are recognized at the highest levels of the music industry. They all bring with them a diverse musical background forming a wonderfully vibrant mix of rock, soul, blues, reggae, SOCA and of course a smooth groove jazz style.
Kath and the Tomkats have called Vernon, BC. home for over a decade. Over the past 12 years, they have featured various musicians who added diversity and a variety of genres to the band’s repertoire of music. They have been voted Best Local Jazz and Blues Band as well as Favorite Local Band and continue to bring their style of music at various venues throughout the Okanagan.
Kath Raeber – Vocals
The band’s leader and lead vocalist, Kath brings a sultry, bluesy feel to the music. A freelance writer, Playwright, festival promoter ( Rarearth Music Fest) and ( Our Kids Have Talent ) … she also loves to write and co-produce her own songs. Kaths vocals are described as a sweet mix of soft sultry tones punctuated by the power and tonality of the hardest rocking female vocals of the 60′s and 70′s.
Walter Musekamp – Guitar
Walt brings over 40 years of experience to the band. Walt is the solid rock of the Tomkats. Crying long notes, soft reggae plucking and all out howling guitar mayhem are serious trademarks of the man we lovingly call “Walt”.
John Keith – Drums/Percussion
John is the driving force of the dance floor. Laying down a solid groove to sink your feet into. Along with playing for the Tomkats, John is a highly sought after sound engineer. John has worked with some very well known artists. Buddy Guy, Collin James, Doug and the Slugs, Shaggy, Long John Baldry are a few of the many acts our boy has done sound for.
John is equally talented in the studio, having taught both live sound and recording arts at Center of Arts And Technology in Kelowna BC. The summer of 2012 had John Mixing and recording Jo Burts (former member of Black Sabath) live shows in the Okanagan.
Craig Carmody – Sax, Guitar, Flute, Percussion
Craig is the bands multi talented fellow (every band should have one lol). Craig plays a multitude of instruments that include Sax, Guitar, Keys, Flute and percussion. Craig is the guy that adds a wonderful texture to the bands diverse list of songs. Craig is both a seasoned recording artist, having played on the acclaimed top 10 charting Heat Exchange album. Also a nearly viral video (41400 hits) on YouTube of Craig playing a sultry sax solo in between recording sessions with the Tomkats. The Tomkats are extremely proud to have Craig part of the band.
Jacob Chatterton – Bass
Jacob is one monster bass player. He is influenced by Reggae, SOCA & Funk bands of all eras. Jacob is the big bottom of the rhythm section, making your whole body tingle to the thunderous percussive sounds he produces. Jacob is also a talented recording engineer and computer guru. Jacob keeps the band technical requirements working flawlessly and sounding great.