Belle & Sebastian
Belle & Sebastian are an indie pop band formed in Glasgow, Scotland in January 1996. The brainchild of Stuart Murdoch, the project began as a student thesis, eventually blossoming into a full-fledged band. Known for their literate lyrics, gentle melodies, and a penchant for crafting deeply introspective songs, the group quickly garnered a devoted following. Their debut album, "Tigermilk," was initially released as a limited edition in 1996 but quickly became a cult favorite. The band's breakthrough came with their follow-up, "If You're Feeling Sinister," also released in 1996, which was characterized by its soft acoustic arrangements and Murdoch's unique narrative style. Over the years, Belle & Sebastian have released numerous albums, including "The Boy with the Arab Strap" (1998) and "Dear Catastrophe Waitress" (2003), each exploring various themes of youth, love, and existential reflections. The band is often praised for their ability to weave storytelling with catchy, melancholic tunes, and they are considered pioneers of the indie pop genre. With a changing lineup over the years, Stuart Murdoch remains at the creative helm, guiding Belle & Sebastian as they continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their nuanced, articulate music.