Karen Stachel, Norbert Stachel & LehCats

Norbert Stachel is a saxophonist/multi-instrumentalist who has toured, recorded, and performed with Tower Of Power, Flora Purim & Airto, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Prince, Boz Scaggs, Roger Waters, Giovanni Hidalgo, Dream Theatre, Patrice Rushen, Ray Obiedo, Sheila E, Pete Escovedo, and countless others. Norbert co-leads the band with his wife Karen Stachel.

Karen Stachel has released four albums of her own. She works as a professional jazz and classical flutist in NYC and the Bay Area. She can be heard on several movie soundtracks and commercials. She is a member of the Wallace Roney Orchestra and a regular flutist/piccoloist with the New Amsterdam Symphony. 

LehCats is a dynamic New York-based jazz fusion ensemble led by multi-instrumentalist Norbert Stachel and flutist Karen Stachel. Known for their intricate compositions and genre-blending sound, LehCats combines elements of jazz, funk, Latin, and world music to create a powerful, rhythm-driven experience that resonates with a diverse range of listeners. The band’s unique name comes from the founders’ last name spelled backward, highlighting the creative spirit behind their music.

With influences spanning African, Latin American, Caribbean, and Middle Eastern traditions, LehCats’ music is deeply layered and often inspired by themes of unity, social justice, and celebration. Known for their high-energy live performances and studio releases like Movement to Egalitaria and Out of the Bag, LehCats has carved out a reputation for pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz.


Karen Stachel - flutes, piccolo, & vocals

Irving Flores - piano

Aaron Germain - acoustic & electric bass

Phil Hawkins - drums

Norbert Stachel - saxophones & flutes

Tickets are $25 general admission. Children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available here, or if the show is not sold out, you may purchase your tickets at the door before the show.

Doors open 30 minutes before show time. We accept cash or Venmo only at the door.

The Back Room is an all-ages, BYOB (for those 21+) space, dedicated to (mostly) acoustic music of all kinds. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages. The venue is ADA accessible. If you need more information or have any questions, please call us: #510-381-1997.

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Thank you for your support!

Please refrain from using your phone during performances, and if you use your camera or video, please disable the flash.

Although masks are no longer required, we strongly encourage their use to keep everyone safe in our intimate space.