For the political and social groups see Libertine
The Libertines were a critically acclaimed British rock and roll band noted for their chaotic live outings, often seemingly ramshackle touring schedule and quintessentially English take on punk rock. The line-up consisted of Pete Doherty (vocals/guitar), Carl Barât (vocals/guitar), John Hassall (bass) and Gary Powell (drums).
Their debut single, "What A Waster" ( 2002), produced by former Suede guitarist Bernard Butler, was immediately seized upon by the English press for its liberal use of profanity and English colloquialism. The single charted at number 37 and was followed by number 29 hit, "Up The Bracket". The debut album also entitled Up The Bracket charted at number 35. The album was produced by Mick Jones formerly of The Clash and Big Audio Dynamite. It was followed in 2004 by their self-titled second album The Libertines which reached number 1 in the UK album charts. This album and the band's 2002 single "What a Waster" were referenced by the British group Half Man Half Biscuit in the song "Shit Arm, Bad Tattoo" from their 2005 album Achtung Bono.
The band has been compared to many classic British rock n' roll bands, as their angle on rock n' roll is uniquely English. Their sound is often likened to the sound of The Jam, The Kinks' early records as well as The Clash's first album and early singles. They are perhaps most similar to pioneer rockers, The Buzzcocks. Morrissey is another key influence cited by the band members. Many of their lyrics refer to elements of British life, use English/ cockney slang and are often in a near-drunken sounding slur. In their attitude they are almost always compared to The Sex Pistols due to their chaotic and energetic live performances and Pete Doherty's instability and nihilistic, self-destructive behavior.
