The Beekeepers, composed of Jamie East (vocals), Gary Thatcher (guitar), Mark Simpson (bass), Steve Bailey (drums), formed in 1993. They signed to Beggars Banquet Records, and released their first single, "Hold On", in 1996. Other releases followed, including "Do You Behave Like That at Home?", a
Melody Maker 'Single of the Week', and an
album,
Third Party, Fear and Theft, which featured
production by
Gil Norton. They toured extensively from 1996 until 1998 and were once supported by
Travis. They also had TV appearances on
MTV, VHF,
The O-Zone,
The Chart Show and
The Mag. The group broke up in 1998, with some members going on to form Lucas J. In 2001, East, the band's singer and lyricist said he had had enough of 'pop-fuelled punk' and wanted to explore different genres.
2011–present The Beekeepers recorded new material and reformed for a reunion at The Old Bell in Derby on 24 September 2011. Kev Lamb replaced Julian Berry on guitar duties. In November 2013, the Beekeepers took to the stage at The Assembly Rooms
Derby, guesting with the band on the night was
Pendulum guitarist
Peredur ap Gwynedd who replaced Gary Thatcher due to prior work commitments. ==Discography==