Babyshambles

Babyshambles formed in London in 2003 when Pete Doherty was effectively expelled from the Libertines. The band — Doherty, Drew McConnell, Adam Ficek, and Mik Whitnall — developed a sound that was rooted in the Libertines template but had its own character. The tabloid coverage of Doherty's personal life made it almost impossible to hear the music clearly.

'Down in Albion' (2005) was the debut — rough, energetic, and full of moments of genuine brilliance. 'Fuck Forever', 'Killamangiro', and 'Albion' were all excellent singles. The album was produced by Mick Jones of the Clash. 'Shotter's Nation' (2007) was even better — more focused and more assured, it showed a band capable of real quality when the chaos was managed.

Babyshambles split in 2008 when Doherty rejoined the Libertines. They reformed in 2013 and released 'Sequel to the Prequel' (2013) — a strong album that received better reviews than either of its predecessors. Doherty's voice and lyrical imagination remain as distinctive as ever.