
Archive is a British musical collective known for their innovative blend of genres, experimental soundscapes, and thought-provoking lyrics. Their historical journey from the early 1990s to the present day has been marked by artistic exploration and evolution, making them a respected and influential presence in the music industry.
The story of Archive began in 1994, when the band was formed in London by Darius Keeler and Danny Griffiths. Initially, they were a duo that embraced electronic and trip-hop influences, creating a distinct sound that captured the essence of the 90s music scene. Their early days were marked by collaborations with various vocalists, contributing to the diversity of their musical style.
The historical timeline of Archive is a tapestry of artistic experimentation, evolution, and collaboration:
- 1996: The band’s debut album, “Londinium,” was released. It introduced Archive’s unique fusion of trip-hop, electronica, and alternative rock, setting the tone for their future endeavors.
- 1997: Archive’s second album, “Take My Head,” marked a shift in their musical direction, incorporating more rock elements and showcasing their evolving sound.
- 1999: The critically acclaimed album “Controlling Crowds” was released. It was the first part of a tetralogy, followed by “Controlling Crowds Part IV” in 2009.
- 2002: “You All Look the Same to Me” further pushed the boundaries of Archive’s sound, featuring orchestral arrangements and a more expansive sonic palette.
- 2004: Archive released the double album “Noise,” featuring a collection of unreleased tracks and remixes that showcased their diverse range of influences.
- 2006: The album “Lights” was released, continuing their exploration of orchestral and cinematic elements, and featuring the hit single “Bullets.”
- 2009: The completion of the “Controlling Crowds” tetralogy with the release of “Controlling Crowds Part IV.”
- 2012: Archive released “With Us Until You’re Dead,” a cinematic album that combined electronic and rock elements while maintaining their signature introspective lyrics.
- 2014: “Axiom,” an experimental electronic album, showcased Archive’s willingness to push the boundaries of their sound.
- 2019: The release of “25,” a career-spanning retrospective album, marked a milestone for Archive as they celebrated a quarter-century of musical exploration.
Throughout their historical journey, Archive has welcomed numerous collaborators and vocalists, each adding a unique dimension to their music. Some notable members and contributors include Suzanne Wooder (vocals), Roya Arab (vocals), and Pollard Berrier (vocals).
Discography:
- “Londinium” (1996)
- “Take My Head” (1997)
- “You All Look the Same to Me” (2002)
- “Noise” (2004)
- “Lights” (2006)
- “Controlling Crowds” (2009)
- “With Us Until You’re Dead” (2012)
- “Axiom” (2014)
- “25” (2019)
Archive’s music is known for its exploration of themes such as identity, society, human emotions, and the complexities of life. Their lyrics often delve into introspective and philosophical topics, creating a deep and meaningful connection with their audience.
Official Social Media Accounts:
Platform | Link |
---|---|
Link | |
Link | |
Link | |
YouTube | Link |
Spotify | Link |
Archive’s historical significance goes beyond their music. Their ability to blend genres, experiment with sounds, and create intricate sonic landscapes has earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. As they continue to evolve and explore new horizons, Archive remains a driving force in the realm of progressive and innovative music.