Hailing from the Mediterranean island of Malta, pop/rock trio Beangrowers (a name given to them by a fan at the last minute before an early gig) formed in the mid-'90s. Ian Schranz (drums, synth) and Mark Sansone (bass, synth) met in church while youngsters, later joined by mutual friend Alison Galea (vocals/guitar). The teenagers went through a number of fourth members before settling as a trio. Early demos from the band featured sounds from old sci-fi movies and computer noises. They embarked on a short tour in Germany in 1997, resulting in a deal with Rough Trade Germany. In June 1999 they released 48k, followed in 2001 by Beangrowers. In March 2004 they made the trip to the United States, playing the South by Southwest Music Festival in Texas. Dance Dance Baby appeared in 2004. ~ Kenyon Hopkin