Catfish and the Bottlemen are one of the few bands that have perfected the art of creating indie anthems that fill stadiums. They have a devoted following all over the world thanks to their unadulterated energy, poignant lyrics, and thrilling live performances. However, many were left wondering if Catfish and the Bottlemen had broken up for good after a protracted period of silence, postponed performances, and mysterious departures.
Their fan base was rocked by guitarist Johnny Bond’s departure in 2021; Bond later disclosed that the band’s disintegration was caused by internal dysfunction and creative disagreements. Nevertheless, Catfish and the Bottlemen have made a comeback despite all odds, playing at important festivals, releasing new music, and teasing a new phase.
Catfish and the Bottlemen’s Journey: From Breakup to Resurgence
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Bond’s Departure | Guitarist Johnny Bond leaves in March 2021, citing “dysfunction” |
| Breakup Speculation | The band goes silent, with no official announcement |
| Canceled Shows | Multiple performances are called off without explanation |
| Surprise Comeback | Band announces Reading & Leeds Festival headline slot for 2024 |
| New Music Release | The single Showtime debuts in February 2024 |
| Major Tour Announcement | Live shows planned for Cardiff, Liverpool, and Edinburgh |
| Album Speculation | Press release hints at Van McCann working on a new record |
| Current Status | The band is back but remains silent on past internal conflicts |
What Caused the Dissolution of Catfish and the Bottlemen?
Bond’s departure in 2021 was a major worry for a band that was built on brotherhood and easy chemistry. The guitarist acknowledged in a rare and open statement that the relationships within the band had become “entirely dysfunctional,” citing recurring internal problems that had prevented him from staying.
Bond subsequently clarified that the group’s unity had been shattered by both creative and personal tensions, which initially perplexed fans. Although the band never formally acknowledged these changes, Bond added to the mystery by revealing that another important member had also left.
Frontman Van McCann and the other members did not publicly respond, leading to rumors that the band was disbanded. Fans were disappointed and frustrated as the uncertainty was exacerbated by the show cancellations.
Catfish and the Bottlemen Make a Magnificent Comeback in 2024
Catfish and the Bottlemen shocked the indie rock community by announcing their comeback just when it appeared that the band was coming to an end. Their first major appearance in years sent fans into a frenzy when they were confirmed as the headliners of the Reading & Leeds Festival in 2024.
Live performances weren’t the only aspect of their comeback. Their brand-new single, “Showtime,” released in February 2024, indicating a change in artistic direction. The song’s release was a turning point that demonstrated Catfish weren’t simply making a comeback but were actually changing.
Their summer tour, which included stops in Cardiff, Liverpool, and Edinburgh, cemented their place among the top rock acts in Britain.
Will Catfish and the Bottlemen Release Another Album?
Whether the band is working on a fourth studio album is currently the most important question. Although there has been no formal confirmation, there are hints that a significant event is imminent.
A press release for their April 2024 performance at Liverpool’s Sefton Park stoked rumors by saying:
“Van McCann is back where he’s meant to be: headlining festivals, finishing a brand new album, and beginning a dynamic, exciting new era for Catfish and the Bottlemen.”
Fans who haven’t heard any new music since their 2019 album, The Balance, are excited about this statement since it suggests a possible full-length project.
If this is the case, the most intriguing question at this point is whether the band’s sound will stay consistent or reflect the upheaval of the previous few years.
What Do Fans Have to Say?
The band’s comeback has elicited an intensely emotional response. Numerous fans expressed their happiness and annoyance at the band’s protracted absence on social media.
One user made a hilarious tweet:
“This is what Jesus’ disciples felt like when he resuscitated.”
Another admirer asked for clarification, writing:
Describe the situation to us! We require answers.
It’s obvious that even though the band’s return is being hailed, there is still a lack of communication regarding their break.
What Will Happen to the Bottlemen and Catfish Next?
Catfish and the Bottlemen have made it clear that they’re not done yet with live performances, festival headlining slots, and rumors of a new album. But there are still unanswered questions: what effect will their new lineup have on their sound? Will they also deal with the problems that caused their initial breakup?
There is no doubt that Van McCann is making progress. Despite lineup changes, breakups, and reinventions, great bands have persevered and occasionally come out stronger than before.
So, did the Bottlemen and Catfish split up? Yes, for a while. However, they are now demonstrating that they were never really gone.
