Toploader

Toploader formed in Eastbourne in 1997, Joseph Washbourn, Dan Hipgrave, Julian Deane, Matt Knight, and Rob Green developing a sound rooted in indie rock and Britpop that was immediately melodic and radio-friendly. Washbourn's vocals were warm and expressive, and the band's songs combined melodic directness with a commercial accessibility that gave them a broad appeal.

They were signed to S2 Records and released 'Onka's Big Moka' (2000) to strong commercial success — a melodically direct indie rock record that produced 'Dancing in the Moonlight' (a cover of King Harvest's 1972 song) and 'Achilles Heel'. 'Dancing in the Moonlight' became one of the most ubiquitous British singles of the early 2000s — a joyful, radio-friendly song that reached the UK top ten and became a staple of radio playlists.

Toploader dissolved in 2003 before reforming in 2009. They have continued to record and perform, remaining a popular live act. They are remembered as one of the most commercially successful new British acts of the early 2000s — a band whose combination of melodic directness and radio-friendly accessibility produced music of genuine popular appeal.