Placebo
Sonisphere’s artist pages are written by real fans for real fans. Thanks to Benjamin Bland for this one…
When Placebo were founded by Belgian singer/guitarist Brian Molko and Swedish bassist Stefan Olsdal in London in 1994 little did the pair know that they would become one of the most important British bands of their era. Critically acclaimed throughout their career and fairly commercially successful as well, the band has become known for their customary blend of glam, grunge and indie-rock. Influenced largely by bands such as Nirvana and Depeche Mode, Placebo’s career was kicked off by their successful eponymous debut album in 1996, with single “Nancy Boy” cracking the top 5. The band secured support slots with David Bowie, as well as an invitation to play at the great man’s 50th birthday party. “Without You I’m Nothing” proved a less successful record commercially in the UK but was warmly received by critics and provided another hit single in the shape of “Pure Morning”.
While “Black Market Music” and “Sleeping With Ghosts” may have seen mainstream support for the band dwindle, a devoted fan base remained and the group went from strength to strength in terms of European success, especially in France. 2006’s return to British commercial form “Meds” featured guest appearances on the album from the likes of Alison Mosshart and Michael Stipe. By the time “Battle For The Sun” was released in 2009 Placebo were once again at the forefront of Britain’s alternative scene, proving themselves with impressive performances under Radiohead at the Reading & Leeds Festivals and a sell out world tour. One of the few bands who can rightly claim to be as popular with readers of Q or NME as Kerrang or RockSound, fans are drawn to the group for reasons ranging from the band’s often androgynous image to Molko’s lyrical reflections on subject matter such as drug abuse and his own sexuality.
Perfectly prepared to appear as outsiders, Placebo are definitely going to show Sonisphere-goers at Knebworth why they are seen as one of the most interesting British rock bands of recent years. Even die hard metal heads will be won over.
Current Line-up
Brian Molko – Lead Vocals, Guitar, Harmonica, Keyboards
Stefan Olsdal – Backing Vocals, Bass Guitar, Guitar, Keyboards
Steve Forrest – Backing Vocals, Drums & Percussion
Bill Lloyd – Bass Guitar, Keyboards, Piano (Live Only)
Fiona Brice – Electric Violin, Keyboards, Percussion (Live Only)
Nick Gavrilovic – Keyboards, Guitar, Lap Steel (Live Only)
Must Have Album – “Without You I’m Nothing”
Song we hope they play at Sonisphere: “Pure Morning”
Watch this!
Placebo ‘Bright Lights’
Official Site:
www.placeboworld.co.uk
