The Return of The Catchmen: A Journey Through Time and Sound

A New Era for The Catchmen

When The Catchmen first emerged from the Burnage–Stockport border in the late ’80s, they were part of the same restless northern ferment that would soon define an era. They supported rising names, hosted Oasis at the Boardwalk, and dreamed of making widescreen, orchestral indie long before they had the means to realize it. Life, however, had other plans. Decades on, after BAFTAs, Ivor Novellos, film scores, and global productions, Michael Knowles and Ian Livingstone have returned not for nostalgia, but to complete something they began as teenagers.

Indoor Weather and Stockport Syndrome: A Story Told

With the release of *Indoor Weather* alongside a vinyl reissue of *Stockport Syndrome*, The Catchmen are finally unveiling their complete narrative, infused with the depth, perspective, and orchestral grandeur they always envisioned.

Reflecting on the Resurrection

Hi Michael and Ian. How does it feel seeing The Catchmen name back out there properly again, with both *Indoor Weather* and the reissue of *Stockport Syndrome* landing within weeks of each other?

It’s lovely. We are proud of both albums as productions and as a set of songs. So excited that hopefully people will discover them and hopefully us too!

The Journey: Expectations vs. Reality

When you first formed the band back in 1988, could you ever have imagined the story would take this long, and come back in this way?

I always thought we would magically get picked up and signed and become massive when we were kids. But as 16/17-year-olds, we had no clue. I was sure we would make it. We had Jonathan Dickens (Adele’s manager) come and see us several times pre-Adele and Chrysalis make overtures but had no real steerage. In a way, though, I am glad we didn’t make it then as we both wouldn’t have done all the other stuff we have (I would have probably have been in an early grave too from too much of everything). If we had had a hit, we would probably be chasing that high, writing the same songs rather than continuing to write new songs we love now.

Exploring New Perspectives

‘Stockport Syndrome’ told the story of a young lad’s first great romance. With ‘Indoor Weather’, you revisit that same relationship from the female perspective. When did you realize the story wasn’t finished?

The first album purposefully revisited three old Catchmen songs which frame the album (Hangover, Heartbreak, and Jealousy, Curious Paradox) and the songs had a certain more youthful feel about them – but ended on a reunion in the relationship (aged mid-20s). The second album picks up that story through having kids and to dark times and brings us to the present day (a lot older!!!)

Was it daunting stepping into that female voice, especially when you’re writing about ageing, invisibility, menopause, and emotional labor?

It’s interesting trying to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes to see this story from a different female perspective. It was good to collaborate with my wife, Jennifer Knowles, lyrically on this (as well as Ian, musically). As a writer/singer/producer, it was refreshing to take a step back and be singing backup – you hear things differently then with more perspective. The two albums complement each other, I think, but are also mirrors of each other.

A Journey Through Sound

When people listen to both albums back-to-back, what do you hope they feel by the time ‘You Alone’ closes the story?

We love the fact that these are albums to be played all the way through, which seems to be less of a thing at the moment. When I think of the albums I love from *Pet Sounds* to *Steve McQueen*, *Skylarking* to *Want*, these albums all sound like colors and have a oneness to them. We are really grateful for anyone and everyone going on this journey with us and hope they feel that innocence in the first album through to the more life-worn songs in the second – but feel the joy in life and living and creating throughout both (and get something from the experience). We hope people feel moved by the journey. Whether we are young or old, we can still have the joy of these experiences and the joy of creating something new. All things must pass, as George Harrison said.

The Necessity of Time

Did you need those decades apart to make this record with the depth it now has?

I don’t think so. We have continued to write together even if we haven’t been putting something out. Having said that, we perhaps needed the life experience to reflect back on both those younger times. Musically, the work in soundtracks and film is reflected in the albums, and that element has developed over time through working together and apart. You were part of that original Madchester ferment, even hosting Oasis at the Boardwalk.

Creating Beyond Nostalgia

Watching the current wave of reunion culture, does this feel like nostalgia, or unfinished business?

Definitely not nostalgia. I never look back, and in fact, the only time I have looked back has been when asked about Oasis, and then it’s bloody terrifying to see how much time has passed. For me, it’s always about the next project, be that in film or music. Creating something new is the truly exciting thing for me in life. I can’t imagine playing just old songs without turning a page and making something new.

Conclusion

The Catchmen’s return with *Indoor Weather* and the reissue of *Stockport Syndrome* is a testament to their enduring creativity and the evolving nature of their artistry. As they continue to weave their narrative through music, they invite listeners to join them on this reflective journey, bridging the gap between youth and maturity, innocence and experience.

FAQs

What themes do the albums explore?

The albums delve into themes of love, aging, and the complexities of relationships, offering perspectives from both male and female viewpoints.

How does *Indoor Weather* differ from *Stockport Syndrome*?

*Stockport Syndrome* captures youthful romance, while *Indoor Weather* revisits that relationship through the lens of later life experiences, including parenthood and personal challenges.

What role did collaboration play in the creation of these albums?

Collaboration was integral, particularly with Michael’s wife, Jennifer Knowles, contributing lyrics and providing a female perspective, enhancing the depth of the storytelling.

Are The Catchmen planning more projects in the future?

Yes, Michael and Ian emphasize their focus on creating new music rather than dwelling on nostalgia, suggesting that more projects may be on the horizon.