CATALYSTS started the way most sensible life decisions don't - during a global pandemic, in our 30s, with jobs, kids, responsibilities, and absolutely no spare time.

Making music with your best friends turns out to be cheaper than therapy and far more satisfying. It's hoe we connect, create, and stay relatively sane while pretending adulthood is under control.

Two of us previously played together in The Kennedy Soundtrack, with the rest joining through the South Wales music scene. One guitarist (naming no names) has allegedly played in approximately 75% of Welsh rock bands over the past 18 years. This may be an exaggeration. Only slightly.

Paul joined instead of travelling the world - a decision we regularly remind him of whenever morale dips.

CATALYSTS evolved slowly, like a mixtape passed from hand to hand over years. The songs changed, the lineup shifted, but it always sounded right.

Our first proper gig supporting Punk Rock Factory at The Patriot was sold out, sweaty, loud and full of friends - one of those "oh... this might actually work" moments that permanently ruins your ability to quit.

Then in 225 we appeared on BBC Casualty performing our original song Sparks. The episode involved a gig, a stabbing, and a stampede. We'd like to officially clarify that none of these those things have ever happened at a real CATALYSTS show.

The green room snacks were elite though. 10/10. Would fake-gig again.

Motivation fades. Commitment doesn't. That's how you rise Above Average.