How a Leicester rock band named themselves after a member of the Manson cult
In short: Formed in 1997, Kasabian evolved from a local Leicester group into a chart-topping powerhouse. Their name, chosen by original guitarist Chris Karloff, stems from Linda Kasabian, a member of the Charles Manson cult. Despite lineup changes and a major transition in leadership, the band remains a staple of British rock.
Kasabian began as Saracuse, a band formed by friends attending Countesthorpe Community College. The group, consisting of Tom Meighan, Sergio Pizzorno, Chris Karloff, and Chris Edwards, eventually rebranded after Karloff discovered the name Kasabian while reading about Charles Manson. Though the name is an Armenian surname meaning 'butcher,' the band members simply found the word cool. Their early years were marked by a DIY spirit, recording demos at Bedrock Studios in Leicester before finding commercial success with their third single, 'Club Foot.'
The band's trajectory shifted significantly in 2006 when Karloff departed due to creative and personal differences. Despite this, Kasabian continued to produce critically acclaimed work, including the Mercury Prize-shortlisted 'West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum' in 2009. Their live performances became legendary, highlighted by a headline slot at the 2014 Glastonbury Festival and a massive homecoming show at Victoria Park in Leicester that same year, which drew 60,000 fans.
A major turning point occurred in July 2020 when lead vocalist Tom Meighan stepped down following a domestic assault conviction. Remaining founders Pizzorno and Edwards decided to continue, with Pizzorno stepping into the role of lead singer. This new era saw the band maintain their chart dominance, with albums like 'The Alchemist's Euphoria' and 'Happenings' reaching No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart. By 2026, the band was preparing for their ninth studio album, 'Act III,' proving their enduring resilience in the music industry.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Kasabian
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/culture-kasabian.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in UK & Irish culture · More in Cultures · Latest · A–Z · All topics
