What We're Digging Right Now: Killer Kaya

• by Melissa Bobbitt
• Nov 13, 2016

"Killer" is a name usually reserved for hardcore rap or punk bands, but psych-funk outfit Killer Kaya are just as sharp as any groups in those genres. The Santa Barbara-area sextet wowed the Pure Order Brewing audience Nov. 12 with their fluid, feel-good grooves. It's because of their easy-going wizardry that we've chosen them as one of our "What We're Digging Right Now" elite.

If you ever thought Jefferson Airplane or the Doors could use a little bit more authentic mysticism, Apoorva Chiplunkar is the front woman for you. Part pixie, part seductress, this soulful singer channels the best of the jazz and hippie greats. Janis Joplin lives and Mariqueen Maandig travels through her versatile vocals.

The musicians are top notch, trading instruments every few songs, with sultry originals such as "Cloud Nine" and gleeful covers ranging from Madonna to classic disco. Apparently named after a lovable rotund cat who's touched all their lives, Killer Kaya more than embody the "killer" part— they're a must-see if you're in the SB area, or when they come to your neck of the woods.

Killer Kaya's EP, Cigarette Echolocation, is out now. Click here to stream.