Kasabian

When they formed in 1999, Kasabian had the simple intention of becoming a massive – or in their own words – ‘Empire’ band.  Originating from Leicester the band was founded by Tom Meighan (vocals), Sergio Pizzorno (guitar and vocals), Chris Edwards (bass) and Chris Karloff (guitar). They took their name from Linda Kasabian - Charles Manson’s getaway driver.

Their debut album - the self titled - ‘Kasabian,’ was released in 2004 after being recorded in the seclusion of a Farmhouse. While it was not a consistent debut – mixing electro, rock and a dance beat - the record contained enough ‘anthems’ to ensure Kasabian could at least challenge their lofty ambitions. The albums standout tracks, ‘L.S.F,’ ‘Reason is Treason,’ and ‘Processed Beats,’ caught the attention of Oasis – a band that Kasabian had long been inspired by. Kasabian were consequently asked to support Oasis on their 2005 ‘Don’t Believe The Truth’ Tour.

The band are as well known for the forthright, ‘Oasis inspired,’ opinions – particularly Meighan – who called Julian Casablancas, “A Posh Fucking Skier.”
 
2006 saw the band release their second album, ‘Empire.’ During the recording for ‘Empire,’ Karloff left the band in what was at the time deemed an amicable separation. Also during recording Ian Mathews -who had stood in as the bands temporary drummer - was recruited as a full time member of the line-up.

Empire entered the UK Charts at Number One in August 2006. The albums singles have enjoyed similar chart success, with title track, Empire reaching number nine and the second single, ‘Shoot The Runner’ reaching seventeen in November.

2006 saw a number of key performancees for the band. As well as embarking on their first Arena tour at the end of the year the bands performance at the BBC’s Electric Proms at the Camden Roundhouse in London was hailed a triumph. This was largely thanks to the BBC Symphony Orchestra who added the strings to the bands already anthemic numbers.