The Return of The Catchmen: A New Chapter in Their Musical Journey

Revisiting the Past

The Catchmen’s Early Days

When The Catchmen first emerged in the late 1980s, they were part of a vibrant northern music scene that would soon influence an entire generation. Supporting up-and-coming bands and hosting iconic acts like Oasis at the Boardwalk, the band was full of ambition, dreaming of creating expansive, orchestral indie music long before they had the means to realize their vision.

A Journey Through Time

Decades later, after achieving success in film scoring and winning prestigious awards like BAFTAs and Ivor Novellos, Michael Knowles and Ian Livingstone have returned to complete a story they started as teenagers. With the release of their new album, “Indoor Weather,” alongside a vinyl reissue of “Stockport Syndrome,” the band is finally sharing their narrative, imbued with the depth, perspective, and orchestral grandeur they always envisioned.

Rediscovering Their Identity

Excitement of New Releases

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!

Reflections on Their Early Aspirations

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 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.

The Evolution of Their Music

Continuing the Narrative

‘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 realise 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!!!)

Diving into New Perspectives

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

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.

The Experience of Listening

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 common nowadays. When I think of the albums I love, from Pet Sounds to Steve McQueen, Skylarking to Want, these albums all sound like colours 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 also 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 Value of Time Apart

Reflection and Growth

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.

Looking Ahead

Beyond Nostalgia

You were part of that original Madchester ferment, even hosting Oasis at the Boardwalk. 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 it 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 it 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 marks not just a revival of their music, but a continuation of a story that has evolved over decades. With “Indoor Weather” and the reissue of “Stockport Syndrome,” Michael Knowles and Ian Livingstone invite listeners on a journey of reflection, growth, and the enduring joy of creation.

FAQs

What are the themes explored in “Indoor Weather”?

The album revisits relationships through a female perspective, exploring themes such as ageing, emotional labour, and the complexities of life as it unfolds.

How do the two albums connect?

“Stockport Syndrome” focuses on youthful romance, while “Indoor Weather” continues that story, reflecting on life changes and the passage of time.

What influences shaped The Catchmen’s music over the years?

The band’s experiences in film scoring, life events, and collaborations have significantly influenced their musical style and depth.

Is The Catchmen focused on nostalgia with their new releases?

No, the band aims to create new music and narratives rather than dwell on the past, viewing their return as a continuation of their creative journey.