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Bastille began as one songwriter’s bedroom project and became one of the biggest British bands of the 2010s. Dan Smith’s mix of chanting choruses, cinematic synths, history and pop culture references produced “Pompeii,” one of the most streamed alternative songs of its decade, and a career built on genre-hopping curiosity.
| Formed | 2010, London |
| Long-time members | Dan Smith (vocals, songwriting), Kyle Simmons (keyboards), Will Farquarson (bass, guitar), Chris “Woody” Wood (drums) |
| Genres | Indie pop, alternative rock, electronic pop |
| Breakthrough | Bad Blood (2013) |
| Name | From Bastille Day, July 14, Dan Smith’s birthday |
Dan Smith had been writing and recording songs on his own when he recruited friends to play them live. The band took its name from Bastille Day, which falls on Smith’s birthday. Early self-released singles and constant gigging around London led to a deal with Virgin Records.
A U.K. No. 1 album and a worldwide success, thanks to “Pompeii,” with its wordless chant and story of the ancient city frozen in time. “Things We Lost in the Fire,” “Laura Palmer” and “Of the Night” kept the hits coming. Bastille won the BRIT Award for British Breakthrough Act in 2014.
Bigger and more guitar-heavy, with “Good Grief” and “Send Them Off!”
A concept album set over one night out at a party as the world falls apart, with “Joy” and “Those Nights.”
A science-fiction concept album about escaping into technology and imagination, with “Distorted Light Beam” and “Thelma + Louise.”
Between albums, Bastille released popular mixtapes and collaborations, most famously “Happier” with Marshmello (2018), one of the biggest singles of that year.
Smith is a film and literature obsessive, and his lyrics constantly reference movies, myths and history. His voice, often stacked into choral harmonies, is the band’s signature.
Bastille helped define the 2010s crossover between alternative rock and electronic pop, alongside The 1975 and Imagine Dragons. Their willingness to collaborate across genres has kept them current, and “Pompeii” remains a staple of alternative radio.
The 1975, Florence + The Machine, The Killers, Two Door Cinema Club, Foals and The Midnight.
In 2010 in London.
Dan Smith’s birthday is July 14, Bastille Day.
“Pompeii” (2013).
Yes. Bastille continues to release music and tour.
“Pompeii” is one of the songs that shows how naturally alternative rock and synth-driven pop sit together on our airwaves. Catch it on The Modern Rock Radio Show, check the radio show schedule, or press play on the live stream. Want a specific song? Send a request or dedication.
About this article: Written and fact-checked by The Alternative One editorial team, the programmers and music writers behind the station’s on-air shows. Official artist website: www.bastillebastille.com. Last reviewed October 2, 2026. Read our editorial standards or tell us about a correction.
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