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UK Rockers The Rakes Split Up

London rockers the Rakes have broken up. Just days before the release of their third album, 'Klang,' which is due next Tuesday, the indie band has curiously split and canceled plans for a US tour.

"The Rakes have always been very adamant and proud of the fact that we give 100 percent to every gig we've ever played," the band said in a statement Thursday. "If we can't give it everything then we won't do it. That was the rule we set for ourselves from day one."

"After much deliberation, we have come to the shared conclusion that we can't give it 100 percent anymore and regret to announce that the Rakes are calling it a day," the Alan Donohoe-fronted group explained. "We are sorry to let down all the people who were coming to see us on the UK and US tours. Writing your own obituary is a surreal thing to do but we want to give particular thanks to our much-loved fans, all the great people we've worked with over the years, our management and loyal record label. We feel privileged to have had the opportunity to write music together and perform around the world."

Formed in 2002, the London-based band of childhood friends released 'Capture/Release' in 2005 and 'Ten Messages' in 2007 to much acclaim. Describing their own sound as "chaotic, charming, sublime and ridiculous" the group, which also counted guitarist Matthew Swinnerton, bassist Jamie Hornsmith and drummer Lasse Peterson, meshed unfashionable political observations with humor.

"Genuinely, thanks for the good times," the band says in its parting shot. "That was one hell of a party! But now, we really must get some sleep."

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17 Comments

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Carl

Looks like I'm the only person who knows this band and upset since I had tickets for their Toronto date. And for all your jerks out there if you have seen where they have travelled to and played all over the world, I think you can admit that they've accomlished more in 5 years then your whole life! Just beacuse they're not big in North America doesn't mean they don't have fans elsewhere! Awesome Brit rock band. I assume all the negative posts come from top 40 Creed lovers!

November 02 2009 at 6:43 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
1 reply to Carl's comment
Chris

Well said Carl, well said.

I'm a Brit myself and am all too aware of how great this band are/where.

I was due to see them in LA at 'The Roxy' of all places one week after the split. Having missed them in Glasgow I was eagerly awaiting their triumphant strut on to the famous Hollywood stage alas, it was not to be.

"Who the hell are these idiots, trying to act like they're worthy of a news article?"

Well Daniel, these idiots created music born of the frustration we all encounter when we ultimately find a real job, realise that we are adults and accept that our heady students days are well and truly over. And it was done with style, panache and most importantly - wit!

Image-wise, Hedi Slimane of Dior Homme and Louis Vuitton fame was said to be so impressed with their dress-sense that he modeled an entire range on them!

So, self-titled music lovers (and 'Daniel' whatever you claim to be) - try doing your research and actually LISTENING to a band before you decide to rubbish them.

You might just like what you hear. If you don't - at least you've earned the write to be critical.

Otherwise, it is YOU who is indeed, the idiot. Morons.

As for yourself Carl of Canada - kick back, crack open a beer, put the rakes on your stereo and start to feel nostalgic... I know I will!

November 18 2009 at 7:46 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Daniel

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! Oh wait The Rakes? Who the hell are they?
I thought you said "Brakes" There's a damn good band. Hey if you like music in general check out "Brakes" NOT "The Brakes" or "The Rakes" but just "Brakes" Really talented band. If they broke up I'd be sad. Who the hell are these idiots, trying to act like they're worthy of a news article?

October 24 2009 at 2:03 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Lorren

oh boo hoo.

October 24 2009 at 1:48 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
dadart888

Wow, Rake is calling it quits. Did they ever get started?

October 24 2009 at 1:18 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Glenn

The Rakes?? More like The Flakes! Who the F^%K are these idiot morons? Why bother posting crap like this when half the world or more has never even heard of these clowns? Ridiculous!

October 24 2009 at 1:11 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Bob Mohilowski

Since The Rakes are dead. Should they rename themselves The Shovels?

October 24 2009 at 12:52 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Mytwocents

Who cares?
Never heard of 'em

October 24 2009 at 12:48 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Hugh Jassol

Yep, this would be big news if anyone knew who the hell they are.

October 24 2009 at 12:46 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Pat

Of course my first reaction is to ask "the who?", which of course would be the name of a band someone has actually heard of.

October 24 2009 at 12:30 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
sam

IF THEIR "ROCKERS"....THEN ROCK N ROLL IS SURELY DEAD!

October 24 2009 at 12:25 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply