Catch 23 is a dynamic blues-rock band formed in 2018, based in Melbourne, Australia.
Catch 23 formed from a combination of serendipitous moments and a shared desire to create something new. The story begins with Brendan Alexander (vocal, guitar, harp) and Andy Miller (drums), who had worked together in the past and had a vision of starting fresh with a new project. Their search started with an ad, placed in local music classifieds. It wasn’t long before Ron E. Smith, a vocalist/bassist with a strong background in many genres, responded. He was eager for a new musical outlet and saw potential in the concept that Brendan and Andy were pitching. As the trio began to jam and develop ideas, the chemistry felt like it could go somewhere, but they were still missing that final spark. They needed a lead guitarist—someone who could both add texture to their sound and step into the spotlight when the time was right.
Enter Andrew Baker. His approach to the guitar was about creating moments within the music, layering tones and melodies that added depth to the band’s overall sound. The band’s foundation were laid.
In the Studio
Catch 23's debut album, Blues Hotel (released in 2022), received strong critical acclaim and solidified their presence on the Australian music charts, peaking at #2 on Australia’s Blues and Roots album chart. Tracks like “Done n’ Dusted’” and “If it Aint Broke” gained a devoted fanbase, while live shows saw the band deliver passionate, high-energy performances.
Now, in 2025, Catch 23 is set to release their highly anticipated second album, Bullet Full of Blues, on October 19th. The new album promises to build on their signature sound while exploring new musical territories, delivering a raw and emotive experience with a mix of traditional blues, soulful ballads, and powerful rock influences.
Key Achievements
- Blues Hotel peaked at #2 on the ABARAC Blues and Roots album chart
- Received critical acclaim in Australia and round the world for debut album Blues Hotel
- Played at many iconic Australian blues and roots venues, including MBAS, Basin Music Festival, and more
- Featured in top music outlets, including Ride Time Radio, The Blues Lounge and Triple J
Accolades
"Their music is a great listen for blues fans and guitar lovers". It's got a really good production quality...I've really enjoyed listening to the band. Ten out of ten for the guitar work, ten out of ten for the production! You can see the quality of their music...it just shows you how good that band is”
— Ride Time Radio, Santa Cruz, Tenerife
"Catch 23, yeah what a seriously great band they are!"..."As you know if you're a regular listener, we like that album and have played a number of tracks from that release"
— "The Blues Lounge" Radio Show, England
"Blues music is more than a guitar chord - a riff - a beat - a bass line - killer vocals. Blues music has to give you that feeling. Not all bands got that. CATCH 23 gives me that feeling... and then some. CATCH 23 is a rockin' great blues band"
- Cap'n Barney, Blues DJ WERU / WMHB / WXNZ, USA
"Bullet Full of Blues"
Release Date: October 19th, 2025
Available on CD and all streaming platforms.
_____________________
Album Overview:
Bullet Full of Blues is a reflection of the band’s growth and evolution over the last three years, featuring the songwriting chemistry of Ron E. Smith and Andrew Baker. The album explores themes of resilience, heartbreak, and redemption, all with a deep-rooted love for the blues. With Bullet Full of Blues, Catch 23 showcases their ability to marry gritty, soulful blues with anthemic hooks.
Lead singles “Wrong End of the Barrel” and “Dying for my Time” encapsulate the essence of the album, while tracks like “A Broken Man” dive deep into slow-burning ballads. The album’s title track, "Bullet Full of Blues," serves as a fiery declaration of the band's commitment to staying true to their roots while pushing the genre's boundaries.
"Blues Hotel"
Release in 2022, Blues Hotel is the band's first album and is available on CD and all streaming platforms.
_____________________
Album Overview:
Blues Hotel is Catch 23’s electrifying debut studio album, showcasing their raw energy and genre-blending style. Standout tracks like "Done n' Dusted”, If It Ain’t Broke” and “Half the Man” showcase the band’s range, through infectious grooves.
Contact Information
- Booking & Inquiries:
musicmrsmith66@gmail.com - Phone: +61 411 346 307
- Press & Media:
musicmrsmith66@gmail.com