Graceland Soundstage
May 14, 2022
Tickets and Info: gracelandlive.com/bastille
Originally the solo project of London-based singer/songwriter Dan Smith, Bastille combines glossy '80s synth textures and arena-friendly choruses into dramatic yet earnest, brooding yet joyful songs like their hit single "Pompeii," which helped them sell millions of their 2013 debut album, Bad Blood. Later on, the band expanded on and refined their approach. For 2016's Wild World, they added hints of R&B, dance, and rock as well as overtly political songwriting, then took a conceptual and confessional approach on 2019's gospel- and house music-influenced Doom Days.
Born in Leeds, England to South African parents, Smith began writing songs at age 15. However, he didn't share his music until several years later, when a friend encouraged him to enter 2007's Leeds Bright Young Things competition. After placing as a finalist, he continued to work on music on his own and with To Kill a King's Ralph Pelleymounter while studying at the University of Leeds. After he graduated, Smith moved to London and pursued music in earnest. In 2010, he connected with drummer Chris Wood, guitarist/bassist William Farquarson, and keyboardist Kyle Simmons. Taking their name from Bastille Day -- which also happens to be Smith's birthday -- the group became Bastille.