PORTSTEWART, CO ANTRIM

1993 - 1999

OVERVIEW Catchers was formed in 1993 by Dale Grundle from Portstewart. The original line up of the band featured Grundle on vocals and guitar, supported by Alice Lemon [Keyboards & Backing Vocals], Peter Kelly [Drums & Percussion] and Ger Fitzgerald [Bass Guitar]. Ger had previously played with Limerick band They Do It With Mirrors which also featured Darragh Dukes of Headgear and Wasted Youth Orchestra fame. The band sent demo recordings to a number of London-based record labels. These recordings eventually came to the attention of Keith Cullen, head of Setanta Records. The band wasted no time in recording and releasing their debut single, 'Cotton Dress'. This was followed soon afterwards by their first long player, 'Mute'. A further single, 'Shifting' was released before the end of 1994. The band spent much of 1995 in the US, touring extensively. At the end of the tour, Ger decided decided to remain in the US and pursue his own interets. However, by early 1996, Craig Carpenter had been recruited as his replacement. In 1998, Catchers returned to the scene with a new lineup. Craig Carpenter had been replaced by Alex Brandau and the group had been enhanced to a five piece with Jonathan Lord added on guitar. 1993 - Band formed 1994 - Release of 'Cotton Dress' single - Release of 'Shifting' single - Release of 'Mute' album 1995 - Release of 'Stooping To Fit' album - Release of 'Apathy' single in Belgium 1998 - Release of 'Call Her name' single - Release of 'Come Around' single