Codeine Velvet Club

Codeine Velvet Club

Codeine Velvet Club is a Glasgow alternative rock group active from 2008 to 2010. The project centres on Jon Fratelli, known for his work with The Fratellis, and Lou Hickey. It forms while The Fratellis take a break between recording and touring commitments, and it serves as a side project for Fratelli during that period.

Formation and members

The group forms in Glasgow in 2008 and consists of Jon Fratelli and Lou Hickey. Fratelli is also identified as Jon Lawler. The pair share songwriting duties. The act is associated with indie, alternative, britpop and rock.

Release history and activity

The band’s self-titled debut album, Codeine Velvet Club, appears in 2009. Before the album’s release, the group promotes early material through its website, including a clip of “Vanity Kills” and a full version of “Hollywood”. The website also carries information about the band’s first shows, and the early live performances receive positive reviews for the vocals and arrangements.

Context within The Fratellis

Codeine Velvet Club develops while The Fratellis are touring Here We Stand and before work on their third studio album. Fratelli states that he wants a solo effort to keep busy between albums, and the project is presented as something he pursues after The Fratellis complete their touring commitments, including an appearance at The Hop Farm Festival. The band remains active until 2010.