The Musical Biography of The Rakes

Are you a music enthusiast who loves discovering new and exciting musical styles and influences? If so, then you should definitely check out The Rakes. This British indie rock band was formed in 2003 and quickly rose to fame with their unique style and sound. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into the musical biography of The Rakes, from their beginnings to their most famous albums and songs.

The Rakes were formed in London in 2003 by four friends: Alan Donohoe, Matthew Swinnerton, Jamie Hornsmith, and Lasse Petersen. Their musical style is characterized by a combination of punk, post-punk revival, and indie rock, with influences from bands such as The Jam, Wire, and The Smiths. The band quickly garnered a following in the UK underground music scene, and in 2004 they released their debut album, Capture/Release, which received critical acclaim and put them on the map as one of the most promising British indie rock bands of the time.

The Rakes continued to produce music and released two more albums, Ten New Messages and Klang, before they disbanded in 2009. Ten New Messages, released in 2007, showcased a more experimental side of the band, with a mix of punk, post-punk, and electronic influences. Klang, released in 2009, was a departure from their earlier style and was more electronic and dance-oriented, featuring collaborations with producers such as Alan Braxe and Paul Epworth.

The Rakes were known for their energetic and charismatic live performances, which were often characterized by Donohoe's intense and theatrical stage presence. Some of their most famous songs include 22 Grand Job, Retreat, and We Are All Animals, which feature catchy hooks, driving rhythms, and clever lyrics.

In terms of influences, The Rakes were heavily influenced by the post-punk and new wave movements of the late 70s and early 80s, as well as the Britpop movement of the 90s. Bands such as The Jam, Wire, The Smiths, and Blur were major sources of inspiration for The Rakes, and their music reflects a unique blend of these various influences.

In conclusion, The Rakes were an influential and innovative British indie rock band that had a significant impact on the music scene of the mid-2000s. Their unique style and sound, characterized by a blend of punk, post-punk, and indie rock, as well as their energetic live performances, made them a fan favorite. Though they disbanded in 2009, their music continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, The Rakes are definitely worth checking out if you want to experience the best of British indie rock.