About
1983 - 1986
- In 1983, an original band known as the LIBERTINES formed with Cincinnati natives Walt Hodge, Randy Cheek and Joe Hamm.
- Their debut performance was broadcast live on WAIF radio in 1984, featuring "Everybody Wants to be my Sister".
- Heavily influenced by music of the 1960's and 1970‘s, most notably CCR, Velvet Underground, and the Stooges.
- The Libertines sound has been described as a blend of Replacements, Echo and the Bunnymen, and early REM.
- Their second single, "Voices from the Past" was introduced to Europe by the late John Peel on BBC radio in 1986.
- The band toured extensively in the US, performing with acts such as the Violent Femmes, Replacements, the Long Ryders.
1986 - 1992
- After a disastrous summer tour in 1986, the band briefly fell apart.
- Guitarist Jimmy D joined, bringing Greg Blanton along for drums.
- The Libertines released a cassette only EP titled "Ohio" in 1987.
- The sound moved to heavier rockers to augment the earlier pop.
- Shows could go pop, twang, psychedelic punk, even grunge.
- Unfortunately, A&R people could not categorize them.
- No major US label at the time would touch them.
- In 1988, Dutch record label Megadisc released "Tilt-A-Whirl".
- Available only in Europe, the album was never released in the US.
2006 - 2019
- Following a break of nearly fifteen years, the Libertines return.
- Drummer Todd Witt joins Walt, Randy, and Jimmy D.
- They become the Libertines US due to the successful UK group.
- "Greatest Hits - Volume 1" is released in 2007 on CD.
- Thanks to CD Baby, the band's music is finally available globally.
- The band resumed select performances in the eastern US.
- 2019, Expressive Artists add the Libertines US to their catalog.
Photo Gallery
