For the past 20 years, The Charlatans UK (the 'UK' suffix was added to differentiate from a 1960s US band who shared the name - they are simply known as The Charlatans outside North America) have produced a string of critical and commercially acclaimed music, delighting audiences around the world with their swirling guitar and keyboard arrangements and catchy, dance infused rhythms. They have built an impressive catalog of 11 studio albums beginning with their classic 1990 debut Some Friendly through their latest effort Who We Touch released just this past September.
The band was formed in England's West Midlands region during the later 1980s by bassist Martin Blunt, who added local lads Rob Collins (keyboards), Jon Brookes (drums) and guitarist Baz Ketley. Ketley soon left the band and was replaced by vocalist and songwriter Tim Burgess and John Baker (guitar). Their indie single "Indian Rope" was a UK hit, propelling the band to follow up with the UK Top 10 single "The Only One I Know" and the album Some Friendly.
Like many bands, The Charlatans' success has been tempered by tragedy. Rob Collins ran afoul of the law in 1992, spending 4 months in prison as a result of an armed robbery conviction. Collins later died in an auto accident. More recently, drummer Jon Brookes suffered a seizure on-stage during a performance in Philadelphia and was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Following surgery, he is working toward recovery and aims to rejoin the band later this year.
The Charlatans continue to tour and record, recently celebrating their 20th anniversary with a remastered version of their debut Some Friendly, including bonus tracks. Up All Night will feature selections from throughout the band's storied career, including songs from their latest release Who We Touch.
As always, we welcome your requests. So if you've a favourite Charlatans track, drop a note in the comments section and cross your fingers!
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