Genre: Pop/Rock, R&B/Urban, Worship
Members: Sam Katina, Joe Katina, Jesse Katina, John Katina, James Katina
For fans of: Bebe Winans, Andraé Crouch, Boyz II Men, Plus One, 4Him, dc Talk
Label: Gotee Records

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Samoa-born brothers Sam, Joe, Jesse, John, and James—collectively known as The Katinas—do nothing less than set the standard for five individuals singing with one unshakeable voice. With a vocal blend honed by siblings singing since birth, The Katinas utilize their synergistic bonds to stretch pop music beyond any of its present borders. The group's artistic vision has always been bold, but never has it all come together the way it has on Roots.

Roots seamlessly sews together such sleek sounds as classic Motown, urban hip-hop, neo-soul, and islands-influenced pop. With the same musical heritage, the brothers maintain a clear artistic vision that gives them a singular voice as natural as their family ties.

"We can honestly say that everything we did on Roots was intentional," says Joe, who also plays drums in the group. "In the past we sorted through all the different styles that we like, but with Roots we nailed our style with purpose."

"The album has such a strong concentration on harmonies," explains Jesse. "Even as kids, our dad would only let us play instruments if we could sing while we played." Adds Sam jokingly, "And that is really hard to do when you're playing the saxophone."

The Katinas also distinguish themselves from other vocal groups by playing instruments. In the past, the group often worked with producers that doubled as programmers, which took away from their live performance feel, but Roots brilliantly celebrates the brothers' change to making live instrumentation an integral part of their recordings.

The Katinas co-produced the album with Bryan Lenox (Michael W. Smith), Kene "Ghost" Bell (tobyMac), Pete Kipley (Mercy Me), and Robert "Aurlem" Marvin (Stacie Orrico). The brothers crafted upbeat tracks like "Freedom" and "Are You Ready" that rev up the rock guitars for an undeniable energy and attitude. Likewise, "Movin'" and "Hey World" marry the live instrumentation with edgy urban programming for a fierce pop assault that conquers the best of both worlds. Yet Roots utilizes more than guitar, bass, and drums for its electrifying energy. Tommy Sims lends guest acoustic guitars, keyboards, and vocals to "Faithfully," Sam plays the Clav on "One Moment," and several tracks, such as the angelic "Changed," feature spectacular string arrangements.

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