Charlatans (The)
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 The Charlatans, a band whose blend of alternative rock, indie, and Madchester influences made them icons of the Britpop era.
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: Birmingham, West Midlands, England
Active years: 1988–present
Associated genres: Alternative rock, Madchester, Britpop, indie rock
Record labels: Situation Two, Beggars Banquet, Universal, Sanctuary, Cooking Vinyl, BMG
Members: Martin Blunt – bass/Tim Burgess – lead vocals/Mark Collins – guitar/Tony Rogers – keys
Former members: Rob Collins (deceased), Jon Brookes (deceased), Jon Day, Baz Ketley
Formation and Early Years
Formed in 1988 in Birmingham by bassist Martin Blunt, who recruited Rob Collins (keyboards), Jon Brookes (drums), Jon Day (guitar), and Baz Ketley (vocals).
Ketley left and was replaced by Tim Burgess, whose vocal style helped define the band’s sound.
Early recordings showcased a fusion of 1960s soul, R&B, and garage rock with acid house influences.
Rise to Prominence
Debut single, "Indian Rope" (1990), was an indie hit, leading to a deal with Beggars Banquet.
Second single, "The Only One I Know", reached the UK Top 10 and remains their most iconic track.
Debut album, Some Friendly (1990), topped the UK Albums Chart and solidified their place in the Madchester scene.
Commercial Success and Albums
Up to Our Hips (1994) and The Charlatans (1995) demonstrated their staying power, with the latter reaching No. 1 in the UK.
Tragedy struck when keyboardist Rob Collins died in a car accident in 1996. The band regrouped and released Tellin' Stories (1997), featuring hits like "One to Another" and "North Country Boy".
Continued success with albums like Us and Us Only (1999), Wonderland (2001), and Modern Nature (2015), blending genres from country to soul.
Later Activities and Legacy
Overcame adversity with the deaths of key members, Rob Collins (1996) and Jon Brookes (2013), by continuing to record and perform.
Their 2015 album, Modern Nature, was a critical and commercial success, showcasing resilience and evolution.
The Charlatans remain active, with their latest album, Different Days (2017), further cementing their place in British music history.
Notable Facts
The band was briefly known as "The Charlatans UK" in the United States due to a naming conflict.
They played pivotal support slots for Oasis at the legendary Knebworth concerts in 1996.
The 2013 album, Modern Nature, features drum tracks recorded by Jon Brookes before his passing.
Defining Lyric
"What are you sad about?" – "North Country Boy"
Discography
Some Friendly (1990) – UK No. 1
Between 10th and 11th (1992)
Up to Our Hips (1994)
The Charlatans (1995) – UK No. 1
Tellin' Stories (1997) – UK No. 1
Us and Us Only (1999)
Wonderland (2001)
Up at the Lake (2004)
Simpatico (2006)
You Cross My Path (2008)
Who We Touch (2010)
Modern Nature (2015)
Different Days (2017)
Essential Listening
"The Only One I Know" (1990): A definitive anthem of the Madchester scene.
"One to Another" (1996): A high-energy Britpop staple.
"North Country Boy" (1997): Reflective and iconic, it encapsulates their enduring appeal.
Why You Should Be Listening to The Charlatans Now
The Charlatans’ music is a testament to perseverance and creativity. From their Madchester roots to their ongoing innovation, they’ve consistently delivered timeless tunes. Whether you’re revisiting old favourites or discovering their music for the first time, The Charlatans continue to inspire and energise.
See you on down the road.
