The Maccabees

The Maccabees

The Maccabees were an indie rock band formed in London, UK, initially active from 2002 to 2016, with a reunion announced in October 2024. The band's lineup featured Orlando Weeks on vocals, Hugo White and Felix White on guitars and vocals, Rupert Jarvis on bass, and Sam Doyle on drums, who replaced Robert Dylan Thomas.

Formation and Early Releases

The band's name was reportedly chosen by randomly selecting a word from the Bible, though none of the members identified as religious. They debuted in 2004 with the You Make Noise I Make Sandwiches EP, released on Haircut Records. Their first single, "X-Ray," was released on Promise Records in November 2005. Following this, their second single, "Latchmere," released in April 2006 on Fierce Panda Records, achieved minor indie success with its post-punk influence.

Debut Album and Fiction Records

Inking a deal with Fiction Records, an imprint of Polydor and former label of The Cure, The Maccabees released their debut studio album, Colour It In, on May 4, 2007. The album spawned three widely available singles: "First Love," "About Your Dress," and "Precious Time," with a fourth and final single, "Toothpaste Kisses," released on October 8, 2007.

Subsequent Albums

The band's second album, Wall of Arms, was released on May 4, 2009, preceded by the single "Love You Better" on April 27th. This album was produced by Markus Dravs, known for his work with artists like Björk and Arcade Fire, and was recorded across various cities, including Liverpool and Paris.

Their third album, Given To The Wild, was released on January 9, 2012. The recording process involved Rockfield Studios in Wales, their London rehearsal space, and a finishing period in Suffolk.

The Maccabees' final album, Marks to Prove It, was released in 2015. The band announced their decision to disband in August 2016, concluding their career with farewell concerts in 2017.

Band Members and Connections

Guitarist Felix White was previously a member of the band Jack's Basement alongside Jack Peñate. Felix and Hugo White are brothers. Former drummer Robert Dylan Thomas departed the band in 2008.