Hard-Fi

Hard-Fi formed in Staines in 2003, Richard Archer's observational, working-class lyrics and the band's energetic post-punk sound giving them a quality that was immediately distinctive. They recorded their debut album in a disused taxi office in Staines — the DIY approach was both a necessity and a statement. They signed to Atlantic Records and released 'Stars of CCTV' (2005).

'Stars of CCTV' was Mercury Prize nominated. 'Hard to Beat', 'Tied Up Too Tight', and 'Cash Machine' were all excellent singles. The album showed a band capable of real melodic invention and genuine social observation. Archer's lyrics — about working-class life in suburban England — were more specific and more honest than most of his contemporaries.

Hard-Fi split in 2012 after two further albums. 'Once Upon a Time in the West' (2007) reached number one. The band's back catalogue holds up well — the debut in particular remains one of the finest British rock albums of the mid-2000s.