Indie upstarts The Rakes have shocked fans by confirming they are to split up before an upcoming tour.
The Rakes sprang from the Whitechapel indie punk scene but there was always more to the band than following the latest trend.
Ferociously intelligent the group blended art theory with punk to craft something very unique. Early singles such as ’22 Grand Job’ won the band a cult following, speaking of the mundane nature of nine to five existence.
Having worked with famed designer Hedi Slimane and toured with Franz Ferdinand it seemed as though The Rakes were destined for stardom.
However chart success alluded the band on their second album ‘Ten New Messages’. Returning this year with ‘Klang’ it seems that despite warm reviews The Rakes’ appetite to continue has been blunted.
A statement to the NME revealed that the group had decided to split. “The Rakes have always been very adamant and proud of the fact that we give 100 per cent to every gig we’ve ever played”.
“If we can’t give it everything then we won’t do it. That was the rule we set ourselves from day one. After much deliberation we have come to the shared conclusion that we can’t give it 100 per cent any more and regret to announce that The Rakes are calling it a day.”
The Rakes had been due to play a number of tour dates in Britain and the United States. “Writing your own obituary is a surreal thing to do,” the group continued.
“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. Genuinely, thanks for the good times… that was one hell of a party! But now, we really must get some sleep.”