"Katz… has a gift for hooks and melodies, and his voice is as warm and compelling as a crackling fire."
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Already being called one of the great songwriters of his generation, Aaron Katz is a true craftsman with the ability to combine ultra melodic tunes with provocative lyrics, drenched in colorful imagery and unforgettable hooks. Hailing from New England and formerly of the critically acclaimed New Hampshire based jazz/jam/rock outfit Percy Hill, Katz "always seems to choose his words with care and manages to present crisp images with little clutter to speak of" (Scott McLennan, Worcester Telegram & Gazette).
It was during his years at the University of New Hampshire, as a music major with a concentration in Jazz drums and percussion, that Aaron got his first taste of being in touring ensembles. Then in 1998, Aaron was asked to join the local band giant Percy Hill, who were interested in changing their musical approach and direction. Aaron brought to the group a mature sense of songwriting, vocal style, and natural rhythmic feel behind the drums. His impact on Percy Hill inspired the group to enter the recording studio, and the outcome, entitled Color in Bloom, was quickly coined, "…tightly focused, addictively listenable, and downright accessible" (Richard Gehr, the Village Voice). In 1999, Aaron and Percy Hill brought home the 2000 Jammy Award for Best Studio Album of the Year.
After three years of touring throughout North America with Percy Hill, a healthy break was in order. However, Aaron chose not to use this time to relax, but rather saw it as an opportunity to step out on his own and pursue a solo career. Therefore, in the fall of 2000, Aaron began recording his first solo album with long time collaborator- not to mention outstanding guitar virtuoso- Josh Pryor serving as Engineer and Co-Producer, recruiting the some of the most talented musicians available in bringing his creative vision to fruition. The result, Simplest Warrior, "has an undeniably infectious groove," (Hayley Kaufman, the Boston Globe) and combines the smooth, soulful vibe of a Stevie Wonder or Jamiroqui with the straight forward singer/ songwriter accessibility of a Paul Simon, Sting, or Dave Matthews.
Currently, Aaron is touring the nation performing his music from the album Simplest Warrior with a wealth of outstanding young talent, including bassist Patrick Dole, saxman-keyboardist-vocalist Andrew Gallagher, electric guitarist Josh Pryor, and alternating drummers Andy Herrick and Dave DiCenzo. To be clear, these musicians do not simply support Aaron, but rather compliment him with a spirit and a harmony that enrich the lives of all those for whom they perform.
For more information, visit www.aaronzkatz.com
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