Attakid
Attakid brings their distinctive musical bridge between East Bay funk and New Orleans soul to Keys Jazz Bistro, continuing their run as a staple of the Bay Area scene since 2013. Founded by saxophonist-vocalist Daniel Casares and keyboardist-vocalist Max Cowan, this all-star ensemble creates what they call "a round-trip from Oakland to the bayou" in every set.
Expect to hear the band's signature blend of swampy New Orleans lilt and the razor-sharp precision of East Bay funk. Their sets weave together reimagined jazz classics—like a Lee Morgan tune given new life—alongside Stevie Wonder ballads transformed into upbeat funk. But their original compositions truly showcase the sound that has become uniquely theirs, drawing from their deep roots in Bay Area music while exploring limitless musical territory.
The ensemble features an impressive lineup with serious jazz and R&B credentials: Casares has worked with Robben Ford and Lauryn Hill, while Cowan brings experience from collaborations with Zigaboo Modeliste and Eric Krasno. The rhythm section and horns round out the sound with contributions from musicians who've backed everyone from Narada Michael Walden to Etta James to Otis McDonald.
As one venue description notes, Attakid creates "a high-energy party vibe" that you "feel as much as you hear." Their performances blend soulful horns with deep-pocket rhythms, creating an atmosphere that's equally at home in dive bars or jazz clubs. Recent social media posts hint at their willingness to dive into funk covers, including tributes to masters like Maceo Parker.
This is music that invites both careful listening and physical response—a testament to the band's ability to honor jazz tradition while keeping the dance floor in mind.