Cat-A-Tac are Rad-A-Tat

This local band sought sweet revenge on Tori Amos

By Erica Boniface

Metromix

441206
Imagine if you're in a band and you are able to say that you have tied with Tori Amos at one point in your musical career. Brush aside the fact that she is a rather annoying musician, it would be pretty sweet. That’s the story of Denver band, Cat-A-Tac.

We wanted to get in their heads and find out who the band really is. Do they admire the Air Guitar Championships as a great spectator sport or are they big on Will Ferrell movies? These may not sound like important questions and you’re right, they really aren’t. But the next time you see Cat-A-Tac play, you’ll love knowing these random tidbits. Lead singer of Cat-A-Tac, Jim McTurnan, has answered all of our bizarre questions. You can spot Jim at the Larimer Lounge on June 8 going all solo.

After releasing your debut album "Past Lies and Former Lives" a year ago now, what has changed in your life?
Things feel more relaxed now than they did a year or two ago. With “Past Lies,” we came pretty close to making the record we’ve always wanted to make. So, we‘re a little more at ease I think. The first few months after the release were pretty exciting and hectic, but things have settled down. We’re now beginning the writing and recording cycle all over again. So, with the last record behind us, it’s time to experiment, turn some corners, and take some chances.

Did the band receive a lot of crazy fan feedback after the release?
We got some nice letters from people and some great support, particularly from college radio. But nothing creepy.

Speaking of 'college radio', the record found itself in a three-way tie between Tori Amos and The Sea And Cake at the #9 spot on CMJ (College Music Journal). Did you call Tori in Las Vegas where she performs at The Flamingo Hotel and Casino to tell her how much she sucks?
Totally. Revenge is sweet.

By the way, what does “Cat-A-Tac” mean?
I’m not sure, but I think it has got something to do with boats.

You’re performing solo at The Larimer Lounge on June 8. Do you ever get jitters being up there all by your lonesome?

Yes! Playing solo is absolutely terrifying. It will be my first time playing solo with an electric rather than an acoustic guitar. So, I’m hoping it will feel a little more natural and less like I’m standing naked on a crowded street corner.  

You went to the University of Colorado. You weren’t in a frat were you?

No. I’m not that into dudes.

What is your favorite bar in Boulder?

All my favorite bars are in Denver.

If you could change one thing about Colorado, what would it be and why?
Hmmmn, I could do without the traffic.

The Air Guitar Championship is taking place June 18th at The Bluebird Theatre. How do you feel about air guitaring? Is it worthy of having a national championship?
It doesn’t sound that exciting, but everyone needs a hobby and something to aspire to.  As a spectator sport, I’d prefer lawn bowling.

Random question of the day: To date, what is your favorite Will Ferrell movie?
Zoolander.