The Fratellis

Glasgow, Scotland-based indie rock band comprising Jon Fratelli (b. 4 March 1979, Scotland; guitar/vocals), Barry Fratelli (b. 23 April 1979, Scotland; bass) and Mince Fratelli (b. 16 May 1983, Scotland; drums/vocals). Taking a leaf out of the Ramones handbook, all the members adopted the same surname and refused to confirm the exact origins of the Fratelli name, although it was later revealed that Barry's original surname is Fratelli. The band was formed in 2004 and was propelled into the limelight early the following year after a gig in their native Glasgow. Their T. Rex-inspired ska punk made them instant media darlings with the English music press, with many commentators marking them out for mainstream chart success. The T. Rex connection arose not only from the music, with their Top 5 single "Chelsea Dagger" being a dead ringer for the 70s glam pop icons, but also from the fact that lead singer Jon Fratelli bears a striking resemblance to Marc Bolan himself. The trio's debut, The Fratellis EP, released in April 2006 on the Nomadic Music label, received rapturous media reviews, with the Clash referencing "The Gutterati?" being singled out as the stand-out track. The EP caught the ear of a number of major labels, with the trio finally opting to sign with Island Records in mid-2006. They ventured into the studio to record their debut album, with Tony Hoffer of Beck and Air fame overseeing the sessions. Packed with memorable riffs, Costello Music was released in September 2006 and confirmed the trio's promise by entering the UK album charts at number 2. With their short, melodic stabs of retro rock with a more recent nod towards Razorlight, the Fratellis also made a huge impression on the festival circuit with their frenetic gigs and fiercely loyal fanbase.