Reef
Pressing Play
Hello you. Make a cup of tea, put a record on. Welcome to The A to Z of Britpop, your introduction to the bands, music, and characters that defined the most exciting genre of the 1990s. In this article, we introduce Reef, a band that emerged in the Britpop era, blending blues rock, hard rock, and funk influences into a distinctive sound that resonated with fans across the UK.
Britpop was built on personalities, fierce rivalries, soundbites, and, of course, the music that defined a decade. It captured the restless energy of the country and signalled a wave of optimism across the UK that had been missing for years.
Each entry in this series is a fact file, giving you the key details: who they were, where they came from, and what they made. It’s the perfect starting point for revisiting the era if you were there, or figuring out why your mum or dad keeps going on about it.
Overview
Originated in: Glastonbury, England
Active years: 1993–2003, 2010–present
Associated genres: Indie rock, alternative rock, blues rock, hard rock, Britpop, funk rock
Record labels: Sony BMG, S2, earMUSIC
Members: Gary Stringer – vocals, acoustic guitar, tambourine / Jack Bessant – bass, acoustic guitar, keyboards, backing vocals / Luke Bullen – drums / Amy Newton – guitars
Former members: Dominic Greensmith – drums / Kenwyn House – guitar / Jesse Wood – guitar / Nathan "Tugg" Curran – drums
Formation and Early Years
Formed in 1993 by Gary Stringer, Jack Bessant, Kenwyn House, and Dominic Greensmith, initially bonding over their shared vision for a high-energy rock band.
Recorded the "Purple Tape" demo, an extremely rare release that laid the foundation for their career.
Signed with Sony’s S2 label in 1994, releasing debut single "Good Feeling", which established their grassroots fanbase.
Rise to Prominence
Supported major acts like Paul Weller, The Rolling Stones, and Soundgarden in the mid-1990s, boosting their exposure.
Debut album Replenish (1995) was certified Gold, featuring the singles "Good Feeling" and "Naked".
Broke through with their second album Glow (1997), which debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart.
Hit single "Place Your Hands" (1996) became their signature track and reached number 6 in the UK Singles Chart.
Commercial Success and Albums
Third album Rides (1999) showcased a more mature, experimental sound, featuring string arrangements by David Campbell and backing vocals by Rose Stone.
Fourth album Getaway (2000) included the standout single "Set the Record Straight", used as the theme for BBC drama Red Cap.
Continued touring with major festival appearances, including Reading and Glastonbury, solidifying their reputation as a powerful live act.
Later Activities and Legacy
Released greatest hits compilation Together – The Best of Reef (2003) amidst tensions with their label.
Disbanded in 2003, with members pursuing side projects such as StringerBessant and Them Is Me.
Reunited in 2010 for a series of successful tours, playing iconic venues and festivals.
Released Revelation (2018) and Shoot Me Your Ace (2022), proving their enduring appeal.
Notable Facts
Their performance of "It’s Your Letters" on TFI Friday became a cult moment, blending humor with their trademark sound.
Supported Coldplay at Wembley Stadium in 2016, showcasing their staying power in the live music scene.
Played a last-minute headline set at Glastonbury 2022, stepping in for The Damned and delivering a memorable performance on The Field of Avalon stage.
Defining Lyric
"Put your hands on, put your hands on!" - Place Your Hands (1996)
Discography
Replenish (1995)
Glow (1997)
Rides (1999)
Getaway (2000)
Revelation (2018)
Shoot Me Your Ace (2022)
Essential Listening
"Place Your Hands" (1996): A euphoric anthem that defined their career and became a festival favorite.
"Good Feeling" (1994): The debut single that introduced their high-energy rock sound.
"Set the Record Straight" (2000): A poignant yet powerful track showcasing their evolved sound.
Why You Should Be Listening to Reef Now
Reef’s music remains as fresh and vibrant as ever, blending rock, soul, and funk into timeless tracks. Their enduring live performances and recent albums demonstrate a band that continues to inspire and energize audiences.
See you on down the road.
