Eels is an American alternate-rock band formed by singer-songwriter Mark Oliver Everett, better known as a Man Called E, Mr. E, or simply E. Other members rotate frequently, both in the studio and on stage. Eels' live shows include new material, interpretations of older songs, and usually some well-known cover versions. The Eels were officially founded when Butch [Drummer] and E met Tommy Walter. E chose the name "Eels" so that the band's records would be next to his solo records in an alphabetical ordering. It was later realized that several bands, including Eagles, would fall in between. Eels became one of the first groups to sign a record deal with Dreamworks. In 1996 the band released their debut album 'Beautiful Freak', a melancholy, pop record with tormented lyrics. Musically, it demonstrated a wide range of influences, including grunge and hip hop. The singles 'Novocaine For The Soul', 'Susan's House' and 'Your Lucky Day In Hell' achieved modest national and international success, and good success in Britain.