The Charlatans (sometimes known as The Charlatans UK) are an English indie rock band formed in 1989, from both the West Midlands and Northwich, Chester.
The band was started by bassist Martin Blunt, who roped in fellow Midlanders, Rob Collins and Jon Brookes, as well as front man Tim Burgess, who was from Northwich. As the band recorded demos and became known on the underground scene, they were often attributed to being a part of the late 80s “Madchester” scene, mainly due to Burgess’ Mancunian roots, but in actual fact, they were recording their music in Birmingham.
However the band moved to Chester in 1990 as they released their debut single “Indian Rope”. After gaining a buzz on the indie circuit, the band were snapped up by major label Situation Two, who released their first top ten single, “The One I Only Know”. Their debut album “Some Friendly” quickly followed, debuting at number one in the UK Charts, as they established themselves as a major force in the early Britpop days.
Their second album “Between 10th and 11th” was released in 1992, and saw The Charlatans taste international success, as their single “Weirdo” charted at Number 1 in the US alternative charts. The band continued their chart topping ways in 1995, when their eponymous debuted at number one in the UK album charts.
During the writing and recording of their next album, 1997’s “Tellin’ Stories”, founding member Rob Collins was killed in a car crash, making it the last release to feature his work. It was the band's most commercially successful album, featuring three top ten singles.
Since 2000, the band have released a further handful of albums, on Universal Records, Sancturary Records and Cooking Vinyl. All of the Charlatans albums have successfully charted in the UK Top 40. The band has also played a variety of high profile gigs such as opening for the Rolling Stones and The Who.
In 2013, the band announced that drummer Jon Brookes had lost his battle with brain cancer. The band played a tribute show for Brookes, and other bands such as Beady Eye and Manic Street Preachers joined them. Money made from the night went towards The Brain Tumour Charity, who have set up a fund in Brookes' name.
Courtney Barnett
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