Murfreesboro, TN-based rockers the Katies were formed by guitarist/singer Jason Moore and bassist/singer Gary Welch in 1996. The duo recruited friends from the local group FL.OZ for their rhythm section and began playing gigs around town, but didn't achieve a permanent lineup until Moore's younger brother Josh was recruited as their drummer. The Katies then started recording with producer Brian Carter; the rough mixes of these sessions got the attention of local label Spongebath Records, as well as Elektra Records; the group's self-titled debut was co-released by the labels in 1999. ~ Heather Phares