LIMERICK | ROSCOMMON

1999 - 2003

OVERVIEW Sutras was an alternative rock band based in Limerick. The group was active in the early part of the 2000s and featured Damien Drea [Vocals, Acoustic Guitar, Organs & Strings], Keith Forde [Guitar & Keyboards], Peter Forde [Guitar], Vincent Brennan [Guitar], Dave Ryan [Bass Guitar] and Karol Drea [Drums]. The band exploded on to the scene in 1999 winning the Heineken Battle Of The Bands. In 2001, the band unleashed its debut single. 'Princess' which perfomed well in the Irish charts, rising to No. 19. In the Hot Press year end annual poll, Sutras was voted one of the most promising new acts. The group also reached the finals of the National Student Music Awards and the O2 New Band Competition. The following year, Sutras walked away with the Bacardi / Hot Press Song Of The Year Award for 'Machine'. Next up for the band was a new single which arrived later that year in the form of 'The Lonely Ones'. Like the earlier release, this 3-track single also entered the Irish Top 20. The band's final release came in the form of 'Believe' which was produced Pat O'Donnell and Ronan McHugh. Later that year, Sutras split. Damien, Keith and Peter went on to form Vesta Varro. Damien and Keith would subsequently launch solo careers. 1999 - Band formed 2001 - Release of 'Princess' single 2003 - Release of 'Believe' single [25 April] - Band split