The Maccabees

Formed in London in 2004, The Maccabees brought together Orlando Weeks, Felix White, Hugo White and Rupert Jarvis, and from 2008 drummer Sam Doyle, who replaced Robert Dylan Thomas. Initially linked to the British post‑punk revival, the band developed a nervous indie rock with angular guitars and tight choruses, before gradually expanding their songwriting into a broader, more atmospheric alternative rock. The Maccabees drew attention in the mid‑2000s with the singles "X‑Ray" and "Latchmere", then released four studio albums: Colour It In (2007), Wall of Arms (2009), Given to the Wild (2012) and Marks to Prove It (2015). Across these records the band moved from a direct, taut format to denser, sometimes more melodic compositions, while remaining active on the UK club and festival circuit where they made their name. Given to the Wild marked a significant turning point, earning a Mercury Prize nomination and an Ivor Novello Award for "Pelican". After announcing their split in 2016 and playing a series of farewell shows in 2017, The Maccabees resumed activity in 2024.