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Bastille (band)

Bastille is an English indie pop band formed in London in 2010.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 11, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Bastille is an English indie pop band formed in London in 2010. It began as a solo project by singer-songwriter Dan Smith and later expanded to include Kyle Simmons, Will Farquarson, and Chris 'Woody' Wood. The band is known for combining indie pop, pop rock, synth-pop, and alternative rock influences.

History

Bastille began in 2010 as Dan Smith’s solo recording project in London. It later developed into a four-piece band and signed with Virgin Records.

Musical style

The band’s sound is commonly described as indie pop with elements of pop rock, synth-pop, electropop, and alternative rock. Its recordings are often noted for polished production and anthemic choruses.

Career highlights

Bastille’s debut studio album, Bad Blood, reached number one on the UK Albums Chart. The single "Pompeii" helped establish the band internationally and became one of their best-known songs.

Name and identity

The band’s name comes from Bastille Day and the storming of the Bastille in Paris in 1789. Dan Smith’s birthday falls on 14 July, which influenced the choice.

Key facts

  • Bastille started as a solo project by Dan Smith before expanding into a full band.
  • The group formed in London in 2010.
  • Its lineup includes Dan Smith, Kyle Simmons, Will Farquarson, and Chris 'Woody' Wood.
  • Bastille’s debut studio album, Bad Blood, reached number one on the UK Albums Chart.
  • The single 'Pompeii' became one of the band’s best-known songs.
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Canadian context

Bastille has toured and released music for a broad international audience, including Canadian listeners and concertgoers, but there is no specific Canada-only connection in the provided sources.

Frequently asked questions

Who are Bastille?
Bastille is an English band formed in 2010 and led by Dan Smith.
Where are Bastille from?
The band originated in London, England.
What genre is Bastille?
They are mainly described as indie pop, with pop rock, synth-pop, electropop, and alternative rock influences.
Who are the members of Bastille?
The core lineup is Dan Smith, Kyle Simmons, Will Farquarson, and Chris 'Woody' Wood.
Why is the band called Bastille?
The name refers to Bastille Day and the storming of the Bastille; Dan Smith was born on 14 July.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bastille_(band)
    Supports: Formation year, origin, genre, lineup, and years active
  2. Official Charts Company — https://www.officialcharts.com/artist/7574/bastille/
    Supports: Debut album success, "Pompeii" chart performance, and band members
  3. Radio X — https://www.radiox.co.uk/artists/bastille/what-does-band-name-mean-reason/
    Supports: Band name origin and formation details
  4. AllMusic — https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bastille-mn0002825814
    Supports: General stylistic description and South London origin