Katz Roar

Katz Roar is a blend of guitar and vocal melodies by Katy Avila and Rory Matthews, echoing the nostalgic sounds of jazz, indie folk, rock, and blues. With jam band and lounge singer vibes, this duo can perform a variety of covers and originals—from intimate tunes for weddings and ceremonies to mellow background music for larger events.

A native of Santa Cruz, Rory Matthews’ melodic guitar playing is embellished with funky rhythms, expressive slide guitar, and soulful riffs. He has a B.A. from Thornton School of Music at USC in Los Angeles, and also played and recorded with the San Francisco funk and soul band Midtown Social for four years. Katy Avila is a singer-songwriter from Los Angeles who sang in chamber and jazz choir for ten years. Her love for storytelling can be felt in her original music and vocal stylings, which have been described as raw and moving.

Between their musical careers, Katy and Rory have played in a wide range of venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Monterey Jazz Festival, Stern Grove, High Sierra Music Festival, and performed internationally in Italy, Australia and the UK. The couple lives in Oakland, CA with their cat, Rosy, and have been playing together since 2016.

Katz Roar is excited to connect with you and create the perfect mood for your event.

Home Base: San Francisco

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