The Charlatans

The Charlatans formed in the West Midlands in 1989, Tim Burgess's charismatic vocals and Rob Collins's Hammond organ giving the band a sound that was rooted in the Madchester moment but had its own distinct character. 'The Only One I Know' (1990) was an immediate hit — the organ riff was irresistible, and Burgess's delivery had a loose, confident quality that suited the times perfectly.

The early 1990s were turbulent — keyboard player Rob Collins was convicted of armed robbery in 1993, and the band's commercial momentum stalled. But they kept recording, and 'Up to Our Hips' (1994) and the self-titled fifth album (1995) showed a band who had grown considerably. The Charlatans were no longer just a Madchester act — they were something more durable.

Collins died in a car accident in 1996, a devastating blow. The band's response was remarkable: 'Tellin' Stories' (1997) was their best album, a record made in grief that somehow managed to be joyful and life-affirming. 'One to Another', 'North Country Boy', 'How High' — the singles were among the best of the year. The album reached number one.

The Charlatans have continued to record and tour with remarkable consistency. Burgess has also had a successful solo career and has become one of the most engaging presences on social media. 'Different Days' (2017) was a strong late-career album. They remain one of the most beloved live acts in Britain — a band whose longevity is a testament to genuine quality.