Satchel

Satchel is an American alternative rock band with roots in Brad, the one-off project originally assembled by Pearl Jam guitarist Stone Gossard. Brad begins as a friends’ session project, and after the release of Shame in 1992, Gossard returns to Pearl Jam while drummer Regan Hagar and singer Shawn Smith continue together in a new, permanent group.

The band first forms under the name Bliss before changing to Satchel. After bringing in guitarist John Hoag and bassist Cory Kane, the group signs to Epic Records. Their debut album, EDC, appears in 1994. The band tours extensively, and Kane later leaves and is replaced by Mike Berg.

Satchel’s second album, The Family, appears in 1996, with Gossard involved as co-producer. The record has a softer sound than the debut, and the band tours again, including a support slot with The Afghan Whigs. Despite the touring, the albums do not achieve major sales success. Hoag leaves after the Brad reunion begins to take shape, and Berg later plays bass for Brad on tour when Jeremy Toback cannot travel, even though he appears on the recording.

Shawn Smith is also associated with Pigeonhed, a two-man side project in which he explores his interest in Prince. Satchel’s own history is closely tied to the transition between Brad and the later Brad reunion, leaving the group’s future uncertain after Hoag’s departure and the renewed focus on Brad.