Indie heroes The Libertines have spoken about their much discussed reformation.
Emerging from London back in 2002, The Libertines helped to re-define guitar music in Britain. Giving the legacy of The Kinks et al a new spin, the band’s slim back catalogue helped to inspire a generation of songwriters.
Yet nothing that good can last forever. Collapsing into a messy heap in 2004, singer Pete Doherty was thrown out of the band after burgling co-songwriter Carl Barat’s flat.
Beginning the Babyshambles adventure which still continues, Doherty’s career is now set to come full circle. The Libertines confirmed their reformation last night (March 29th) for a special set at Reading and Leeds.
The band will perform at Leeds on August 27th, before playing Reading the next day. The full line up of The Libertines – Pete Doherty, Carl Barat, John Hassall and Gary Powell – are due to play at the event.
Speaking to the NME, Carl Barat claimed that the reformation was the will of the people. “We’re reforming the band to play the songs that people want to hear” he claimed.
“We’re going to get together, play songs which have been collecting dust in the garage. People want to hear them, so we’re going to give them a run. We’ll be playing them like we’re playing them for the last ever time.”
Meanwhile Pete Doherty seemed to be overcome by the news. “I can’t really believe it yet. I haven’t quite digested it. It’s been a bit of a pipe dream.”
The Libertines reformation has been much discussed, with the band said to be receiving almost £1.5 million for just two shows.
