Czarakcziew and the Jazz Cats – A Tribute To Fred Katz

Czarakcziew and the Jazz Cats are a quartet that has been exploring the boundaries of jazz since 2020, adding a unique element of the cello to this fascinating musical narrative. Founded by cellist Paweł Czarakcziew, the group seamlessly fuses classical, film music, and avant-garde influences with modern jazz improvisations, resulting in an authentic yet refreshingly innovative sound. The ensemble’s members are distinguished graduates of top music academies in Poland, recognized for their accomplishments in national and international competitions delivering original compositions or re-imagining classic jazz standards. The band exude synergy and spontaneity that has captivated audiences worldwide. Their creative approach draws inspiration from pioneering figures like Fred Katz, Buddy Collette, and Chico Hamilton. This refreshing approach has even caught the attention of rock legend John Densmore (The Doors), who praises their ability to integrate a traditionally classical instrument into a swing’n jazz ensemble.”The band’s commitment to breaking musical barriers led them to Los Angeles in 2023, where they recorded a project in homage to Fred Katz with producer Harlan Steinberger at Hen House Studio’s recording studio, bridging jazz history with contemporary exploration.

Members:

Paweł Czarakcziew – cello

Przemysław Stefańczyk – piano

Mikołaj Sikora – double bass

Tomasz Starowicz – drums

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I’ve always thought that musicians (if they are sincere), draw from the same source.  No matter what genre (classical, jazz, rock) they are in, it’s the same well.  In my book The Seekers – Meetings with Remarkable Musicians, I write a chapter on Fred Katz, my old college professor & more importantly, the cello player in the Chico Hamilton Jazz Quintet.  You heard that correctly – a cello in a jazz setting.

My young mind was blown by the way Prof Katz integrated a traditionally classical instrument, into a swingin’ jazz ensemble.  My mind has been blown again, by Pawel doing the same thing.  His trio consists of musicians of the highest caliber.  They are extremely tight, which is the key to any ensemble, whether it be a duet or a symphony orchestra.

When musical borders like this are crossed, we all experience a healing.  What previously seems impossible (red & blue states getting along), when done as well as this recording, one is left with a warm feeling.  Tension is released, and what is music for… anyway?  If it brings people together, you can’t ask for more.

Pawel has done for the cello what Stephene Grappelli did for the violin.  Like Fred, he bows and plucks the instrument like a jazz soloist.  Vienna goes to New Orleans.  It is so refreshing to hear these two genres melded into a third form, I encourage you to CHECK IT OUT!

– John Densmore – The Doors Drummer