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The Amps were formed in 1995 by Kim Deal, a vocalist and rhythm guitarist originally from the United States, following a hiatus of her previous group, the Breeders. Deal had already established herself as a key figure in alternative rock through her work with the Pixies and the Breeders, and she sought to continue recording during the Breeders’ break. The band’s lineup included Luis Lerma on bass, Nate Farley on lead guitar, and Jim Macpherson of the Breeders on drums, with Kelley Deal briefly involved before departing due to drug‑related issues. The Amps’ breakthrough came with the single "Tipp City" released on 30 October 1995, which preceded their debut album Pacer, issued in October 1995 after sessions at Easley Studios and other locations across the United States, Ireland, and beyond. Throughout 1995 and 1996, The Amps toured extensively in the United States, Europe, and Australia, sharing stages with acts such as the Foo Fighters, Sonic Youth, Guided by Voices, and Primus, and performing at festivals like Summersault. In 1996, Kim Deal reverted the group’s name back to the Breeders, effectively ending The Amps’ brief existence; the members subsequently pursued other projects, with former members later appearing in Guided by Voices and other side projects.
