The Verve

Biography

The Verve were an English rock band formed in Wigan in 1990 by singer Richard Ashcroft, guitarist Nick McCabe, bassist Simon Jones, and drummer Peter Salisbury. Initially known as just Verve, they are considered one of the most significant bands of the Britpop era. The band's early sound was characterized by a blend of psychedelic rock, shoegaze, and space rock, creating atmospheric and expansive soundscapes.

Early Years and 'A Storm in Heaven'

The band signed with Hut Records in 1991 and released a series of critically acclaimed EPs, including "All in the Mind" and "She's a Superstar". Their debut album, "A Storm in Heaven," was released in 1993, produced by John Leckie. The album showcased their psychedelic and experimental style, featuring McCabe's freeform guitar work and Ashcroft's distinctive vocals.

'A Northern Soul' and First Breakup

Their second album, 1995's "A Northern Soul," marked a shift towards a more structured and soulful alternative rock sound. The album produced singles like "This Is Music" and "History". However, internal conflicts led to the band's first breakup in 1995, shortly after the album's release.

'Urban Hymns' and Mainstream Success

The Verve reformed in 1997, with the addition of guitarist and keyboardist Simon Tong, although McCabe also returned to the fold. This reunion led to the creation of their most commercially successful album, "Urban Hymns" (1997). The album became one of the best-selling albums in UK history and brought the band international fame. It featured the iconic singles "Bitter Sweet Symphony," "The Drugs Don't Work," "Lucky Man," and "Sonnet".

"Bitter Sweet Symphony" became a massive worldwide hit but was also mired in controversy over a sample from an orchestral version of The Rolling Stones' "The Last Time," leading to a lengthy legal battle. In 1998, The Verve won two Brit Awards for Best British Group and Best British Album for "Urban Hymns".

Second Breakup and Subsequent Reunions

Despite their immense success, the band disbanded for a second time in April 1999, citing internal conflicts. Ashcroft went on to launch a successful solo career. The original lineup reunited in 2007, releasing the album "Forth" in 2008, which included the single "Love Is Noise". However, this reunion was short-lived, and the band broke up for a third time in 2009. Since then, there have been no official plans for another reunion.