Bands & artists like The Cat Empire

If you like The Cat Empire, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

New to The Cat Empire? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Fat Freddy's Drop

Fat Freddy's Drop

With a mix of reggae, jazz, and dub influences, their music features rich instrumentation that invites movement like The Cat Empire.

dub music
The Specials

The Specials

Guide

As pioneers of ska, their energetic rhythms and brass instrumentation resonate with the lively spirit found in The Cat Empire's work.

new wave ska
Gogol Bordello

Gogol Bordello

Guide

Their fusion of gypsy punk with ska and world music shares a celebratory energy and eclectic instrumentation akin to The Cat Empire.

Gypsy punk folk punk punk rock
Streetlight Manifesto

Streetlight Manifesto

Known for their intricate horn arrangements and upbeat ska-punk sound, they create an infectious energy reminiscent of The Cat Empire.

ska punk
Trombone Shorty

Trombone Shorty

His blend of jazz, funk, and New Orleans brass band traditions offers a vibrant sound that aligns well with The Cat Empire's style.

jazz jazz fusion
Ska-P

Ska-P

Guide

This Spanish ska band combines punk rock with ska rhythms, creating an energetic atmosphere similar to that of The Cat Empire.

anarcho-punk punk rock ska
Buena Vista Social Club

Buena Vista Social Club

Their rich Cuban son music features layered instrumentation and rhythmic precision that can evoke a similar celebratory feel.

son cubano
Jungle

Jungle

With their modern take on funk and soul infused with electronic elements, they create a groove-driven sound that parallels The Cat Empire.

electronic rock pop rock punk rock

Common questions

Who sounds like The Cat Empire?

Artists similar to The Cat Empire include Fat Freddy's Drop, The Specials, Gogol Bordello and Streetlight Manifesto. Each shares elements of The Cat Empire's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is The Cat Empire?

The Cat Empire is primarily known for jazz and ska. With an infectious groove driven by rhythmic precision and layered instrumentation, their music pulses forward like a celebratory dance that invites movement and connection.

Where should I start if I like The Cat Empire?

If you enjoy The Cat Empire, start with Fat Freddy's Drop — their album "Based on a True Story" is a great entry point. With a mix of reggae, jazz, and dub influences, their music features rich instrumentation that invites movement like The Cat Empire.