Bio
Smoking Popes

“Ever wonder what a traditional lounge singer would sound like backed up by a punk band? The Smoking Popes take that concept one step further: They've created a unique kind of music that some listeners are describing as ‘hyperkinetic tear-jerkers’." Los Angeles Times
Bursting onto the Chicago punk scene in 1991,
Smoking Popes built a relationship with their legion of fans by melding raw
songs about bittersweet heartache with soaring melodies, power chords and
infectious energy. From their early indie releases to their critically
acclaimed major label albums, Smoking Popes developed a unique blend of buzzsaw
guitars, caffeinated rhythms and heartfelt crooning vocals, combining the angst
of punk with the smooth sophistication of Frank Sinatra, creating music both
urgent and timeless, and influencing a generation of musicians in their wake.
These days, the Popes are tighter and more
inspired than ever, having reunited with drummer Mike Felumlee, from the band’s
seminal recordings of the ‘90s. Lead singer Josh Caterer describes the reunion,
“We’ve been fortunate to have some really great drummers over the years,
they’ve all brought something unique to the band, but as soon as we started
playing with Mike again, we felt like ‘This is how it’s supposed to be!’ Mike
is the one who helped create our sound in the first place. Having him back in
the band brings a lot of energy and excitement to what we’re doing.”
That excitement is palpable on “Into The Agony”, the first full-length Smoking
Popes album featuring their original lineup since 1998’s “The Party’s Over.”
Brilliantly mixed by the legendary Jamie Woolford, “Into The Agony” is a poignant
collection of sublimely crafted songs, passionately delivered by a band clearly
at the top of their game. If this new album is any indication, Smoking Popes
are far from done making waves.
“Into The Agony” is available Oct 12th 2018 on Asian Man Records.
The band will be hitting the road to support the release, with dates covering
North America and Europe in the coming year.
“Why are the Smoking Popes important? Because
they’ve written your favorite song, whether you know it or not.” – Kyle
Kinane, Comedian & Smoking Popes Superfan
Josh Caterer

Lead Vocals, Guitar
Eli Dixon Caterer

Guitar, Backing Vocals
Matt Caterer

Bass
Mike Felumlee

Drums