The Coral The Coral

The Coral: A Journey of Sonic Experimentation and Controversies

The Coral, a vibrant indie rock band hailing from the coastal town of Hoylake, England, emerged onto the music scene in the early 2000s with their distinctive blend of psychedelic melodies, folk-tinged lyrics, and experimental soundscapes.

Early Days and Breakthrough

Formed in 1996, the band comprised James Skelly (vocals, guitar), Ian Skelly (drums, vocals), Bill Ryder-Jones (guitar), Paul Duffy (bass), and Nick Power (keyboards). Their debut album, "The Coral," released in 2002, showcased their eclecticism, featuring tracks that ranged from the ethereal "In the Rain" to the energetic "Dreaming of You." The album garnered critical acclaim and propelled the band to stardom.

Success and Challenges

Over the next decade, The Coral released a string of successful albums, including "Magic and Medicine" (2003), "Nightfreak and the Sons of Becker" (2004), and "Roots & Echoes" (2007). Their music continued to evolve, incorporating elements of soul, funk, and dance music. However, the band also faced challenges, including the departure of Ryder-Jones in 2008.

Controversies and Scandals

The Coral have been embroiled in several controversies throughout their career. In 2004, they were accused of plagiarism for their song "In the Rain," which bore similarities to an earlier track by The Easybeats. The band denied the allegations, but the incident tarnished their reputation.

In 2007, James Skelly was arrested for possession of cocaine. The incident led to the cancellation of several live performances and further damaged the band's image.

Recent Years and Legacy

Despite these setbacks, The Coral have continued to release music and tour extensively. Their latest album, "Distance Inbetween," was released in 2016 and received positive reviews. The band remains a highly respected and influential force in the indie rock scene.

Discography

* The Coral (2002)
* Magic and Medicine (2003)
* Nightfreak and the Sons of Becker (2004)
* The Invisible Invasion (2005)
* Roots & Echoes (2007)
* Butterfly House (2010)
* Distance Inbetween (2016)

Members

* James Skelly (vocals, guitar)
* Ian Skelly (drums, vocals)
* Paul Duffy (bass)
* Nick Power (keyboards)
* Daniel Johns (guitar, vocals)