Keane
Biography
Keane are an English alternative rock band formed in Battle, East Sussex, in 1995. The group consists of Tom Chaplin (lead vocals, guitar), Tim Rice-Oxley (piano, keyboards, backing vocals), Richard Hughes (drums), and Jesse Quin (bass guitar, guitar, backing vocals). Their original lineup included guitarist Dominic Scott, who departed in 2001. Keane are known for their piano-driven rock sound, which sets them apart from many other rock bands.
History
Formation and Early Years (1995–2003)
Tim Rice-Oxley, Tom Chaplin, and Richard Hughes attended Tonbridge School, where Rice-Oxley and Dominic Scott started a band in 1995, initially called The Lotus Eaters. They began by playing covers of bands like U2 and The Beatles. Chaplin joined in 1997, and they changed their name to Keane. After finishing university, the band moved to London to pursue their music career. Guitarist Dominic Scott left the band in 2001, a decision that led to Rice-Oxley's piano becoming the central instrument in their sound. They were discovered by Simon Williams of Fierce Panda Records in 2002, which led to the release of their first commercial single, "Everybody's Changing," in 2003.
Hopes and Fears and International Breakthrough (2004–2005)
Keane's debut album, "Hopes and Fears," was released in May 2004 and achieved massive international success. It topped the UK Albums Chart and became the second-best-selling UK album of that year. The album featured hit singles such as "Somewhere Only We Know," "Everybody's Changing," and "Bedshaped." "Hopes and Fears" won the Brit Award for Best British Album in 2005 and has sold over 13 million records worldwide.
Under the Iron Sea (2006–2007)
The band's second album, "Under the Iron Sea," was released in 2006 and showcased a darker and more atmospheric sound. It also topped the UK charts and debuted at number four on the US Billboard 200. The album was influenced by the internal tensions within the band and the pressures of their newfound fame. Notable tracks include "Is It Any Wonder?," "Crystal Ball," and the introspective "Hamburg Song."
Perfect Symmetry (2008–2011)
For their third album, "Perfect Symmetry," released in 2008, Keane experimented with a more synth-pop-oriented sound, incorporating guitars for the first time since their early days. The album also reached number one in the UK and included singles like "Spiralling" and the title track, "Perfect Symmetry."
Strangeland (2012–2013)
Keane's fourth studio album, "Strangeland," was released in 2012 and marked a return to the piano-driven style of their earlier work. It became their fifth consecutive number-one album in the UK. This album also saw bassist Jesse Quin, who had been touring with the band since 2007, become an official member. Following the release of their compilation album "The Best of Keane" in 2013, the band announced a hiatus.
Hiatus and Return with Cause and Effect (2014–Present)
During their hiatus, band members pursued solo projects. The band reunited in 2018, and in 2019 they released their fifth studio album, "Cause and Effect." The album was inspired by the personal experiences of Tim Rice-Oxley, including his divorce. "Cause and Effect" peaked at number two on the UK Albums Chart and was followed by a tour that was partially postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.