The Cat Empire’s Bird in Paradise is a vibrant and liberating tenth studio album, releasing Friday March 21 via BMG Australia. Born out of raw energy and spontaneity, this record began as an experiment rather than a deliberate project. Lead singer Felix Riebl had long envisioned a flamenco-inspired album, and the seeds for this idea—planted during sessions for their last album, Where The Angels Fall — finally flourished into an electrifying and cohesive body of work.

Where The Angels Fall was notably poppier by The Cats' standards, with a polished production and vibrant, colourful sound, Bird In Paradise marks a triumphant return to a more organic, "live in the room" sound. From the outset, the band made the bold decision to ditch the fragmented methods of modern production, opting instead to capture the magic of musicians playing together in the same space. The result is electrifying—an album that crackles with vitality, pulling you straight into the heart of the action, as if you’re right there with the band, soaking in every note of their undeniable chemistry.

The journey to Bird in Paradise was a serendipitous one. Initially intended as a collection of individual tracks, the album began to take shape within the first few days of recording. The title track was even written in a whirlwind, late-night session just before recording began—an emblem of the chaotic creativity that defines the album. The process was dynamic and playful, with members of the band’s children dancing in the studio and a shared sense of musical joy that permeates every note.

The album’s flamenco inspiration brought together a broader creative team than ever before. Longtime collaborator Richard Tedesco, alongside the core band members - Felix Riebl, Ollie McGill and Ross Irwin, were involved early in the writing process, enriching the sound with strings, horns, and subtle, intricate arrangements. Band member Lazaro Numa’s contributions to the horn section added another layer of depth, Grace Barbe co-wrote four of the tracks on the album, while the entire ensemble leaned into their individual strengths, creating a record that celebrates the collective talent of this musical family.

'La Gracia' is a vibrant tapestry of global influences, inspired by trumpeter Lazaro’s first journey to Spain with the band. 'Blood on the Stage' channels the pulsating energy of The Cat Empire’s European tour. 'Doing Fine' is a self-affirming burst of vibrancy, brimming with edgy and dynamic energy.

This album breaks new ground with the most languages ever featured on a Cat Empire record, a vibrant celebration of the band’s boundless creativity. It’s a kaleidoscope of cultures woven into their unmistakable sound, making every track a global experience.

Visually and sonically, Bird in Paradise is a cohesive masterpiece. Giulia McGauran, the artist behind the album’s artwork, created the visuals while the band were in the depths of recording, resulting in a stunning, carnivalesque aesthetic that perfectly complements the sound. The title isn’t just a clever play on words; it’s a reminder that birds belong in paradise too, much like the music here finds its natural, vibrant home.

For fans, this album offers a refreshing callback to The Cat Empire’s earlier days, while showcasing the wisdom and musicality they’ve honed over two decades. It’s a testament to their ability to create worlds within their music—worlds that are expansive, colourful, and authentic. With Bird in Paradise, The Cat Empire prove they’re not just making music; they’re building a legacy that continues to surprise, inspire, and soar.