The Charlatans: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Discography

Introduction to The Charlatans

The Charlatans have been a defining force in British indie rock since their formation in 1989. Originating from Northwich, Cheshire, the band's sound has evolved through the decades, blending elements of Madchester, Britpop, and alternative rock. Fronted by the charismatic Tim Burgess, The Charlatans have managed to stay relevant for over 30 years, consistently releasing acclaimed albums while maintaining a devoted fan base. In fact, their latest album has reached the top spot on the Official Charts - The Charlatans' UK Album & Single Chart Hi.

Unlike many of their contemporaries, The Charlatans have demonstrated remarkable resilience, overcoming numerous challenges, including the tragic loss of their original keyboardist Rob Collins in 1996. Their ability to adapt and innovate has ensured their place in the pantheon of great British rock bands.

Album-by-Album Breakdown

I'll now expand each album section even further, covering the background, recording process, musical style, critical reception, chart performance, singles, and lasting impact for each one. This will ensure a comprehensive and detailed breakdown of The Charlatans' entire discography.

The Charlatans: An In-Depth Look at Their Discography

Some Friendly (1990)

• UK Chart Peak: #1
• Certifications: UK Gold

Background & Recording

Some Friendly was recorded in 1990, just as the Madchester movement was reaching its peak. The Charlatans were heavily influenced by The Stone Roses, Inspiral Carpets, and Happy Mondays, blending psychedelic keyboards, funk-infused basslines, and baggy drum grooves into their music.

Rob Collins' swirling Hammond organ sound became a defining feature, setting them apart from their peers. However, the album’s production was a difficult process, with tensions running high between the band and producer Chris Nagle (who had worked with Joy Division and New Order).

Musical Style

Some Friendly is a classic Madchester album, filled with jangly guitars, groovy bass, and danceable rhythms. The album’s blend of indie rock and psychedelic dance music made it a perfect soundtrack for the early '90s club scene.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Indian Rope" – Non-album single, became a cult indie hit, leading to their signing with Beggars Banquet.
2. "The Only One I Know" – UK #9, their biggest hit to date, an instant Madchester anthem.
3. "Then" – UK #12, showcased their guitar-driven energy and hypnotic organ.
4. "White Shirt" – UK #89, a lesser-known track but still a fan favorite.

Critical Reception

Upon release, Some Friendly was both praised and criticized. Many loved the atmospheric sound and groove-laden tracks, while others felt it was too indebted to the Madchester scene.

NME: “A solid debut that captures the spirit of the time, but whether they can evolve beyond it remains to be seen.”
Melody Maker: “The Stone Roses comparisons are inevitable, but The Charlatans have a unique energy that’s undeniable.”

Legacy

Despite some criticism, the album became a defining moment in the Madchester movement. It solidified The Charlatans as one of the most important British indie bands of the 1990s.

Between 10th and 11th (1992)

• UK Chart Peak: #21

Background & Recording

With the Madchester scene declining, The Charlatans wanted to move away from the baggy sound and establish a more mature direction. They enlisted Flood, a producer known for his work with U2, Nine Inch Nails, and Depeche Mode, to bring a darker, more atmospheric tone to the album.

However, tensions within the band and struggles with their record label led to a difficult recording process, with disagreements over the production style.

Musical Style

Unlike their debut, Between 10th and 11th embraced a colder, more detached sound, influenced by shoegaze and post-punk. Flood’s production added layers of reverb and distortion, making the album moodier and less immediate than its predecessor.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Weirdo" – UK #19, a brooding, groove-heavy track with a mesmerizing bassline.
2. "Tremelo Song" – UK #44, a trippy, organ-driven track showcasing Collins' signature style.

Critical Reception

Between 10th and 11th was a divisive album. Some critics praised its more mature and experimental approach, while others felt it lacked the immediacy and energy of the debut.

Q Magazine: “A bold attempt to break away from Madchester, but not all of it lands.”
Select Magazine: “Dark, hypnotic, and far more interesting than its predecessor.”

Legacy

Over time, Between 10th and 11th has gained a cult following, with many considering it an underrated gem in The Charlatans’ catalog.

Up to Our Hips (1994)

• UK Chart Peak: #8

Background & Recording

By 1994, The Charlatans had fully moved on from Madchester and were experimenting with funk, soul, and classic rock influences. Steve Hillage (of Gong) was brought in to produce the album, adding a warmer, psychedelic tone.

Musical Style

Up to Our Hips has a looser, funkier feel, embracing a more organic sound while still retaining the band’s signature organ-driven indie rock.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Can’t Get Out of Bed" – UK #24, one of the band’s catchiest tracks, combining bluesy swagger with Britpop charm.
2. "I Never Want an Easy Life If Me and He Were Ever to Get There" – UK #38, a melancholic slow-burner with introspective lyrics.

Critical Reception

Critics viewed Up to Our Hips as a transitional album, praising its expanded sound but noting that it lacked a major breakout hit.

NME: “A step forward, but they’re still searching for their true identity.”

Legacy

While not a commercial smash, Up to Our Hips showcased the band’s growth and set the stage for their later success.

The Charlatans (1995)

• UK Chart Peak: #1

Background & Recording

As Britpop exploded, The Charlatans fully embraced a classic rock influence, drawing inspiration from The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and The Faces. Their self-titled album was a statement of confidence and reinvention.

Musical Style

The album blended psychedelic rock, soul, and Britpop swagger, marking their most radio-friendly work yet.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Just Lookin' / Bullet Comes" – UK #32
2. "Just When You’re Thinkin’ Things Over" – UK #12

Critical Reception

Critics loved the album, calling it their most fully realized work yet.

Melody Maker: “This is the sound of a band at the peak of their powers.”

Legacy

The album’s chart-topping success cemented The Charlatans as one of the biggest bands of the Britpop era.

Tellin’ Stories (1997)

• UK Chart Peak: #1
• Certifications: UK Platinum

Background & Recording

During recording, Rob Collins tragically died in a car accident, devastating the band. They pushed forward, completing the album as a tribute to him.

Musical Style

The album is a balance of Britpop anthems and introspective ballads, blending big, euphoric choruses with raw emotion.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "One to Another" – UK #3
2. "North Country Boy" – UK #4
3. "How High" – UK #6
4. "Tellin’ Stories" – UK #16

Critical Reception & Legacy

Regarded as their masterpiece, Tellin’ Stories remains one of the defining albums of the Britpop era.

Us and Us Only (1999)

• UK Chart Peak: #2
• Certifications: UK Gold

Background & Recording

Following the massive success of Tellin’ Stories, The Charlatans faced the challenge of maintaining their momentum. This album marked a shift in songwriting, as frontman Tim Burgess relocated to the United States, leading to American influences creeping into their sound.

The recording process was more introspective, with the band exploring folk, blues, and country influences, reflecting Burgess’ growing interest in Bob Dylan and The Byrds.

Musical Style

Us and Us Only is a mellower, more mature album compared to its predecessors. While still rooted in Britpop and alternative rock, it embraces soulful melodies, acoustic textures, and psychedelic elements.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Forever" – UK #12
2. "My Beautiful Friend" – UK #31
3. "Impossible" – UK #15

Critical Reception

Critics praised the album’s warm, introspective sound.

Q Magazine: "A more thoughtful and refined album, showcasing a new depth to The Charlatans’ songwriting."
NME: "Proof that The Charlatans were more than just another Britpop band."

Legacy

Us and Us Only was a critical success, proving that the band could evolve beyond Britpop, ensuring their longevity.

Wonderland (2001)

• UK Chart Peak: #2
• Certifications: UK Gold

Background & Recording

By 2001, Britpop had faded, and The Charlatans were once again reinventing themselves. This time, they embraced a funkier, groovier direction, influenced by soul and R&B.

Tim Burgess’ falsetto vocals became a signature feature, setting the album apart from anything they had done before.

Musical Style

Wonderland is a sultry, groove-driven album, featuring deep basslines, falsetto vocals, and funky guitar riffs. Tracks like "Love Is the Key" and "A Man Needs to Be Told" feel almost like Curtis Mayfield or Marvin Gaye songs mixed with indie rock.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Love Is the Key" – UK #16
2. "A Man Needs to Be Told" – UK #31

Critical Reception

The bold stylistic change split opinion.

The Guardian: "A thrilling reinvention that proves The Charlatans still have surprises up their sleeves."
NME: "An ambitious album, but not all of it works."

Legacy

Though divisive at the time, Wonderland has aged well, often regarded as one of their most unique and underrated records.

Up at the Lake (2004)

• UK Chart Peak: #13
• Certifications: UK Silver

Background & Recording

After the groove-heavy Wonderland, Up at the Lake saw The Charlatans return to a more classic rock sound. This was the first album written and recorded entirely in the UK since Tim Burgess had moved to America.

The band focused on rawer, more stripped-down production, moving away from the elaborate layering of their previous two albums.

Musical Style

This album features a mix of folky ballads, anthemic rock songs, and psychedelic moments, embracing a back-to-basics approach.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Up at the Lake" – UK #23
2. "Try Again Today" – UK #24

Critical Reception

Critics noted the introspective, pastoral quality of the album.

Mojo: "A refreshing return to their roots."
Q Magazine: "More understated than their previous work, but quietly brilliant."

Legacy

Though it didn’t make the same commercial impact, Up at the Lake remains a fan favorite due to its melodic charm and emotional depth.

Simpatico (2006)

• UK Chart Peak: #10

Background & Recording

Following their stripped-down previous album, The Charlatans once again reinvented their sound, incorporating dub, reggae, and dance influences. Inspired by The Clash and Lee "Scratch" Perry, they created an album that was more groove-oriented and experimental.

Musical Style

Simpatico blends reggae rhythms, dub basslines, and alternative rock textures, making it one of their most sonically adventurous records.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Blackened Blue Eyes" – UK #28
2. "NYC (There’s No Need to Stop)" – UK #53

Critical Reception

Opinions were mixed, with some critics loving the experimentation, while others found it uneven.

The Independent: "The Charlatans continue to evolve, and not always in ways you’d expect."
NME: "A noble failure."

Legacy

Simpatico was a divisive album, but it showed that The Charlatans were still willing to take risks.

You Cross My Path (2008)

• UK Chart Peak: #39

Background & Recording

In a bold move, The Charlatans released this album as a free download, one of the first major bands to do so. This was a reaction to the changing music industry and digital revolution.

Musical Style

The album saw a return to their darker, post-punk influences, reminiscent of New Order and Joy Division, featuring synth-heavy textures and brooding melodies.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Oh! Vanity" – UK Indie #3
2. "Mis-Takes" – UK Indie #5

Critical Reception

Critics praised the return to a darker, moodier sound.

The Times: "A confident, electronic-tinged record that stands among their best."

Legacy

The album’s free-release model was ahead of its time, influencing future artists.

Who We Touch (2010)

• UK Chart Peak: #21

Background & Recording

This album saw The Charlatans embrace more shoegaze and dream-pop elements, drawing inspiration from The Cure and My Bloody Valentine.

Musical Style

A mix of ethereal, atmospheric textures and classic Charlatans melodies, Who We Touch was cinematic and grand in scope.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Love is Ending" – UK Indie #2

Critical Reception

Critics called it ambitious but inconsistent.

The Guardian: "A bold but sometimes meandering album."

Legacy

Who We Touch was their most sonically expansive record, but it divided long-time fans.

Modern Nature (2015)

• UK Chart Peak: #7

Background & Recording

Following the tragic death of drummer Jon Brookes, The Charlatans crafted an uplifting, hopeful album dedicated to him.

Musical Style

A mix of soul, indie rock, and electronic flourishes, it was their warmest and most soulful record.

Singles & Chart Performance

1. "Talking in Tones"
2. "So Oh"

Critical Reception

Critics loved the new energy.

NME: "A beautiful rebirth."

Different Days (2017)

• UK Chart Peak: #4

A collaborative album featuring Paul Weller, Johnny Marr, and Sharon Horgan, it’s their most experimental record yet.

Singles:

• "Plastic Machinery"

Critical Reception:

• The Guardian: "A late-career highlight."

Here is a chronological list of all releases by The Charlatans, including studio albums, live albums, compilation albums, and notable re-releases:

Studio Albums:

1. Some Friendly (1990)

   • Re-released in 2010

2. Between 10th and 11th (1992)

   • Re-released in 2020

3. Up to Our Hips (1994)

   • Re-released in 2017

4. The Charlatans (1995)

   • Re-released in 2021

5. Tellin' Stories (1997)

   • Re-released in 2012

6. Us and Us Only (1999)

7. Wonderland (2001)

   • Re-released in 2018

8. Up at the Lake (2004)

9. Simpatico (2006)

10. You Cross My Path (2008)

11. Who We Touch (2010)

12. Modern Nature (2015)

13. Different Days (2017)

Live Albums:

1. Live It Like You Love It (2002)

   • Re-released in 2020

2. Live at Delamere Forest (2007)

3. Some Friendly – 20th Anniversary Concerts (2010)

Compilation Albums:

1. Melting Pot (1998)

2. Songs from the Other Side (2002)

3. Forever: The Singles (2006)

4. Collection (2007)

5. The Best of the BBC Sessions 1999–2006 (2008)

6. A Head Full of Ideas: The Best of Charlatans (2021)

Notable Re-releases and Box Sets:

1. Everything Changed (2019) – A seven-inch vinyl box set released as part of Record Store Day, featuring tracks like "Just Lookin'", "Crashin' In", "Bullet Comes", and "Just When You're Thinkin' Things Over".

2. The Charlatans UK V. The Chemical Brothers (1995) – A remix EP featuring remixes of "Toothache" and "Nine Acre Court" by The Chemical Brothers. This EP was re-pressed on vinyl for Record Store Day in 2020, including an additional remix of "Patrol".

The Charlatans, a chronological list of their singles, including re-releases:

If anything is missing - message!

As a cheeky Charlie's bonus - here's a chronological list of Tim Burgess's solo discography, including his studio albums, EPs, and notable singles:

Studio Albums:

1. I Believe (2003)

   • Tim Burgess's debut solo album, released on 8 September 2003. It showcases a blend of rock, country, and funk influences.

2. Oh No I Love You (2012)

   • His second studio album, released on 1 October 2012. This album features collaborations with artists like Factory Floor, R. Stevie Moore, and My Morning Jacket.

3. Same Language, Different Worlds (with Peter Gordon) (2016)

   • A collaborative album with composer Peter Gordon, blending experimental pop and electronic elements.

4. As I Was Now (2018)

   • An album recorded in 2008 but released a decade later, featuring contributions from various artists.

5. I Love the New Sky (2020)

   • Released in May 2020, this album presents a collection of indie and experimental pop tracks.

6. Typical Music (2022)

   • His latest studio album, released in 2022, continuing his exploration of diverse musical styles.

EPs:

• Ascent of the Ascended EP (2020)
  • An EP released in 2020, featuring tracks like "The Ascent of the Ascended."

Notable Singles:

• "I Believe in the Spirit" (2003)

  • A single from his debut album, highlighting his rock and funk influences.

• "Only a Boy" (2003)

  • Another single from his first album, showcasing his solo musical style.

• "White" (2012)

  • A single from his second album, reflecting his experimental pop approach.

• "The Doors of Then" (2012)

  • Another single from "Oh No I Love You," illustrating his evolving musical direction.

• "Here Comes the Weekend" (2022)

  • A recent single released in 2022, continuing his exploration of new sounds.

• "Typical Music" (2022)

  • The title track from his 2022 album, exemplifying his latest musical endeavors.

This list provides an overview of Tim Burgess's solo musical releases, reflecting his evolution as an artist over the years.

Legacy & Influence

With a career spanning over three decades, The Charlatans have carved out a reputation as one of Britain's most enduring and versatile bands. They weathered the collapse of the Madchester movement, the rise and fall of Britpop, and the ever-shifting landscape of the music industry. While many of their contemporaries faded into obscurity, The Charlatans adapted and thrived, consistently releasing music that resonated with fans old and new.

From their early days as Madchester pioneers to their evolution into a respected indie-rock institution, The Charlatans have left an indelible mark on British music. They carried the torch lit by The Stone Roses and Happy Mondays, blending the psychedelic groove of the late ‘80s with a more refined songwriting approach that set the stage for the Britpop explosion of the mid-1990s. While they may not have achieved the same level of mainstream hysteria as Oasis or Blur, their steady stream of acclaimed albums and their ability to consistently reinvent themselves kept them relevant long after Britpop's decline.

Their influence can be heard in bands like Kasabian, The Music, and even Arctic Monkeys, all of whom have drawn from The Charlatans' fusion of danceable rhythms, melodic hooks, and raw, garage-rock energy. Frontman Tim Burgess, with his distinctive vocal delivery and ever-evolving musical taste, has played a pivotal role in shaping not just the band's sound but the broader alternative music landscape in the UK. His solo career and work as a champion of independent artists through Tim’s Twitter Listening Party have further cemented his status as a figurehead of the British indie scene.

Beyond their sound, The Charlatans’ resilience in the face of tragedy—most notably the untimely death of keyboardist Rob Collins in 1996—demonstrates their strength as a band. Rather than succumbing to adversity, they used their experiences to fuel some of their most celebrated work, proving that they were more than just a product of a scene or an era.

This is The Charlatans' legacy—a band that refuses to be defined by trends, always pushing forward. Whether through classic anthems like The Only One I Know or One to Another, their genre-spanning discography, or their ability to remain relevant across multiple decades, The Charlatans have secured their place as one of Britain’s most important and influential bands.

Further Reading & References

For those looking to explore more about The Charlatans' extensive discography, the following books, articles, and online resources provide in-depth insights into their albums, recording processes, and critical reception over the years.

Books

• "The Charlatans – Just When You’re Thinkin’ Things Over" – A deep dive into the band’s history and discography, covering their evolution from Madchester pioneers to one of Britain's most enduring indie-rock bands.
• "Tim Book Two: Vinyl Adventures from Istanbul to San Francisco" – Tim Burgess – A fascinating look into Burgess' love of records, including his thoughts on The Charlatans' albums and their impact on his musical journey.
• "Telling Stories – Tim Burgess" – The lead singer’s candid autobiography detailing the band’s highs and lows, the making of their records, and their ability to survive multiple industry shifts.

Essential Online Articles & Album Reviews

• NME - The Charlatans’ Greatest Albums Ranked – A breakdown of the band's most celebrated albums and their importance within British indie music.
• The Guardian - The Charlatans: Album Reviews – A collection of The Guardian’s reviews of The Charlatans’ albums over the years.
• BBC Music - The Charlatans: A Discography Deep Dive – Analysis of their studio albums, including notable singles, chart performances, and production details.
• Pitchfork - Retrospective: The Charlatans' Most Defining Albums – An in-depth critical take on how the band’s sound evolved with each album.
• AllMusic - The Charlatans Album Reviews – A comprehensive look at each of The Charlatans’ studio, live, and compilation albums.

Interviews & Podcasts

• Tim’s Twitter Listening Party – Hosted by Tim Burgess, featuring track-by-track discussions of The Charlatans’ albums with insights from the band and producers.
• BBC Radio 6 - The Charlatans Special – A retrospective discussion on their biggest records and how they shaped the British indie landscape.
• The Quietus - Tim Burgess Discusses The Charlatans' Discography – A long-form interview where Burgess reflects on their albums and musical evolution.

Chart & Sales Data Resources

• Official Charts – The Charlatans’ UK Album & Single Chart History – Official rankings of their albums and singles in the UK charts.
• Billboard - The Charlatans US Chart History – Chart history for their albums and singles in the United States.
• Discogs - The Charlatans’ Complete Discography – A detailed listing of all of their releases, including rare pressings and special editions.

These resources provide a comprehensive look into The Charlatans' discography, critical acclaim, and lasting influence on the British indie and alternative music scene.