Mega Cat, the exciting instrumental collaboration hailing from the eclectic musical scene of Seattle, offers listeners a laid-back musical journey with their track “Celebrate with Port!” This tune exudes a sense of relaxation and easygoing vibes right from the start.
The drums set the pace with a lazy, unhurried feel, inviting the audience to unwind and let go. As the instruments join in, the track gradually transitions into a mellow downtempo groove. Mega Cat skillfully incorporates jazzy elements, and the harmonies shift smoothly through the chords, creating an enjoyable listening experience.
“Celebrate with Port!” evokes a sense of calm and tranquility, with its instrumentation and melody gently guiding the listener along. The Mellotron introduction adds a touch of nostalgia, building anticipation as the track evolves into a wonderful groove.
The inspiration behind this track comes from the bygone days of The Comet Tavern, a Seattle dive where people used to enjoy shots of port as if it were whiskey. This tune captures the essence of those unforgettable nights on the Pike/Pine corridor, where the sweet, syrupy, and surprisingly potent fortified wine was the drink of choice. Mega Cat’s “Celebrate with Port!” encapsulates the feeling of being in a dive bar, with a hip-hop beat and hints of crust funk, creating a sonic experience that’s both familiar and inviting.
Moreover, the song draws from a unique tradition that Mega Cat developed during lockdown: “a port night every fortnight.” It served as a sentimental way to break up the monotony of time and brought the band members together in the spirit of celebration. The group even recreated The Comet Tavern in Aaron Benson’s backyard, and “Celebrate with Port!” emerged as a testament to those memorable moments.
Mega Cat, consisting of Aaron Benson (drums, percussion, guitar), Kim West (piano and synthesizer), and Ryan Devlin (bass and guitar), delivers music that defies categorization. Their genre-blending approach combines elements of punk, hip-hop instrumentals, 70s Afro Beat, avant jazz, and the distinctive individualism found in Pacific Northwest music.
