Reggae globetrotters back in town

Katchafire's 17-stop tour of the country, including small town destinations, is their way of saying thank you to loyal fans.Photo/File

Wind whips past the phone, fading Logan Bell's voice in and out- the Katchafire frontman is making his way around a golf course when I call to discuss their midwinter tour.

I wouldn't have pegged the reggae singer as a Tiger Woods type, but it is how he likes to wind down, both at home and on tour.

"It's always a treat getting out to play, any opportunity to get out there, even when we are on the road, though that's pretty rare because none of the other boys play."

As lead vocalist and guitarist of Katchafire, he's no stranger to hard work, spending more than half the year offshore before returning to a jam-packed summer schedule of Kiwi festivals and concerts.

For the Hamilton seven-piece, living out of a suitcase is all part of the job, with their calendar booked six months to 12 months in advance.

While travel often meant missing their kids' birthdays or that all important first step, band members found ways to work around it, using Skype to reach loved ones in New Zealand, and making the most of precious time at home to "recharge".

A 17-stop tour of the country, including small town destinations is their way of saying thank you to loyal fans, who make it all possible.

"Our fans are just amazing, I fear we will come home and they have forgotten about us, but the shows are always sold out and the vibe is off the chain - we absolutely love coming back and re-connecting with them.

"America, South America, Europe, people aren't how like we are here, we're more down to earth, less fanatical about things."

When planning a trip, Katchafire are mindful to include spots they may have neglected on recent tours, such as Masterton and Turangi.

"We have always led with our live show, it's just been, 'draw a line on a map', if we haven't been there in years, lets go.

"I am sure a lot of bigger bands aren't doing these places, but you name it we've done it, Masterton I don't think we have ever played, but give us a town hall and 500-600 fans will come out of the woodwork."

As they made their way around the world, a new album was always on the backburner - and with five members contributing to the writing process it is destined to be great.

"The single will come first, it was supposed to be out a week ago, but my brother is being fussy, it's being remixed in Jamaica so it's been a bit of a process back and forth - we are almost there.

"We will release two or three before the album comes out, probably next year."

With band members reaching different stages in their lives, each song has a fresh meaning and inspiration.

"Being able to kick it with my son and my little 3-year-old daughter, she's a handful, these things are special. It gives us a break so when we get into the studio, we are ready to be creative."

Katchafire will perform at the Sideline Bar in Napier on Saturday from 8pm. Pre-sale tickets have already sold out, but there may be limited door sales on the night.