Maktub is a Seattle-based band with soul tendencies, but ultimately varied musical influences. 1996 Reggie Watts reads The Alchemist, stumbles across the phrase "maktub". Meanwhile, drummer Davis Martin decides to form a side project. Bassist Kevin Goldman leaves Phoenix, meets Davis his first day in Seattle. Davis asks Reggie to come jam. Reggie brings voice, telephone mic and the name "maktub". Long-time friend of Davis, Alex Veley, signs up as keyboardist.