Description
A compilation by Rainer Trüby and Miche that delves into the spiritual jazz of LA’s prestigious Catalyst Records, supported by Gilles Peterson and Patrick Forge.
“The Catalyst Files” is a compilation curated by Rainer Trüby and Miche, focusing on the music of the LA label Catalyst Records. It features a selection of tracks from a catalog where soul, spiritual jazz, and jazz-funk intersect.
Catalyst Records was a label that established its own distinctive presence, particularly in the 1970s, known for its free-form performances and deeply spiritual expression. Its music has been supported for many years by DJs such as Gilles Peterson and Patrick Forge, and has been re-evaluated in both club and listening contexts. This release fully conveys that appeal.
The tracks are characterized by deep, immersive basslines, fluid rhythms, and spacious interplay between keyboards and horns, allowing listeners to experience the weightlessness and tension unique to spiritual jazz. Improvisation and groove coexist within the simple arrangements, with the music revealing new facets as it unfolds.
This two-LP set includes a gatefold jacket and liner notes inspired by original Catalyst releases. It offers a comprehensive experience of the label’s history and musical legacy.
A1. Mark Levine - Ixtlán (Shoshana)
A2. Frank Strazzeri - After The Rain
A3. Hadley Caliman - The Latin Thing
B1. Frank Strazzeri – Cloudburst
B2. Albert Dailey - Mimosa
B3. Don Menza - Mz. Liz
C1. Gary Bartz - Ju Ju Man
C2. George Muribus - Brazilian Tapestry
C3. Henry Franklin - Tribal Dance
D1. Pat Britt - Starrsong
D2. Gary Bartz - My Funny Valentine
D3. Flip Nuñez - See You Later
Compiled by Rainer Trüby & Miche, this collection dives deep into the soulful, spiritual, and jazz sound of LA’s Catalyst Records. A PANORAMA special for RSD 2026, The Catalyst Files celebrates the label’s rich history and deep catalog that has been championed by so many DJs including Gilles Peterson and Patrick Forge over the years. Packaged as a 2xLP with gatefold in homage to the original Catalyst releases, liner notes from Andrew Jervis, an insert and an OBI strip. This is an essential for RSD 2026. 2xLP 180g Heavyweight Vinyl, Gatefold Sleeve, Insert, Liner notes from Andrew Jervis.
