High school friends Bob O'Gureck (vocals, guitar) and Randy Staley (guitar, backing vocals) first played in a New Jersey band called the Clowns in the mid-'80s. The Clowns broke up in 1989, but O'Gureck and Staley kept in touch, and later formed ethereal popsters Fossil with guitarist Neil Moscaritolo (later bassist). After two dates at CBGB's, the band was offered a management deal by Hilly Kristal. Soon after, Sire signed the band; Fossil began recording and after their drummer left, Tom Cottone signed on. The Crumb EP was released in late 1994 and a self-titled debut album followed soon after. ~ John Bush