:For the political and social groups see Libertine The Libertines were an English punk band formed in London in 1997 and active until 2004. Part of what was described as the garage rock revival movement of that time, the band was centred on the song-writing partnership and 'chemistry' of Pete Doherty (vocals/rhythm guitar), Carl Barât (vocals/lead guitar), John Hassall (bass) and Gary Powell (drums).
The band gained some notoriety in the early 2000s. Although initially their mainstream success was limited, their profile grew culminating in a #2 single and #1 album in the UK Charts. In December 2004, their self-titled second album was voted the second best album of the year by NME. Both of their full-length LPs were produced by Mick Jones, of the British punk band The Clash.
However, the band's music was often eclipsed by its internal conflicts, many of which stemmed from Doherty's addictions to crack cocaine and heroin, ultimately resulting in the breakup of the band. The members of The Libertines have gone on to new bands, with varying degrees of commercial and critical success.
