The Libertines

The Libertines are an acclaimed UK rock and roll band noted for their chaotic live outings and uniquely English take on punk rock. The line-up consists of Pete Doherty (vocals/guitar), Carl Barat (vocals/guitar), John Hassall (bass) and Gary Powell (drums). Their debut single, "What A Waster" (2002), produced by former Suede guitarist Bernard Butler, was immediately seized upon by the English press for its liberal use of profanity and English colloquialism. The single's success was followed up by the album Up The Bracket, produced by punk icon Mick Jones, formerly of The Clash and Big Audio Dynamite.

Despite their success and critical acclaim (especially in the UK), the band has fallen upon difficult times of late. Pete Doherty became estranged from the band, and was convicted of burglary of bandmate Carl Barat's flat in September 2003. The remaining members toured without him in August and September. After serving one month in jail he rejoined the band in October 2003, However In June 2004 he was kicked out of the band again because of narcotic problems, but the band has promised that "When he cleans up his addictions he will be immediately welcomed back into the band" .