Manchester is renowned not only for its rich industrial heritage but also for its vibrant cultural and musical history. Many of Britain’s most iconic and successful bands have their roots in this industrial city, including The Stone Roses, Oasis, The Smiths, Intastella, Northside, The High, Joy Division, and Hurts. This article, featured on manchester-trend, delves into the story of Hurts, their journey, and the unique sound that has captivated audiences around the globe.
The Formation of a Quintet
The origins of Hurts trace back to 2005 when Theo Hutchcraft and Adam Anderson, the future founders of the band, first met. Their paths crossed in a Manchester club where, while their friends were embroiled in a fight, Theo and Adam—too drunk to participate—struck up a conversation. They quickly discovered a shared passion for music, leading to an exchange of lyrics and ideas over the following months.
In 2006, they formed their first band, Bureau, performing their debut gig as a quintet at The Music Box in Manchester. Their rise was steady as they signed with the independent label High Voltage Sounds, releasing a double A-side single, After Midnight/Dollhouse, which became Xfm’s single of the week. Despite this initial success, Bureau disbanded in 2007.
Theo and Adam regrouped under the name Daggers, signing with Label Fandango and releasing another double A-side single, Money/Magazine. Although this track failed to chart, it earned a nomination for the Popjustice £20 Music Prize. However, their subsequent efforts met with limited success. After a disappointing experience at an A&R showcase in London, the duo returned to Manchester to reconsider their musical direction. They recorded a ballad titled Unspoken, which helped them find the sound they had been seeking. This led to the discovery of a genre they called Disco Lento. In 2009, however, Daggers disbanded.
The Rise of “Hurts”
After years of experimenting with different sounds and band configurations, Theo and Adam finally found their unique musical identity. In 2009, they adopted the name Hurts and released their first single, Wonderful Life. The track marked a departure from their earlier work—minimalist yet lush, melancholic yet uplifting. Wonderful Life became an underground hit, gaining rapid popularity across Europe due to its universal themes of love, loss, and hope, presented through polished synth-pop.
Their debut album, Happiness, released in 2010, achieved both critical and commercial success. It peaked at number four on the UK Albums Chart and topped charts across Europe. Featuring emotionally resonant tracks like Stay, Sunday, and Better Than Love, the album showcased Hurts’ ability to craft songs that combined poignant lyrics with dramatic orchestration. The influence of 1980s synth-pop added a nostalgic yet modern edge to their sound.
In 2013, Hurts released their second album, Exile, which took a darker, more experimental turn. While retaining their pop sensibilities, the album introduced a new intensity to their music, reflecting the duo’s evolution. Exile also enjoyed commercial success, solidifying their position as leading synth-pop artists of their generation.
The Unique Musical Style of “Hurts”
Theo and Adam spent years refining their musical style, eventually crafting a distinctive blend of synth-pop, darkwave, and new wave, drawing inspiration from the electronic and pop sounds of the 1980s. Their music is characterised by its emotional depth, combining atmospheric synth melodies with powerful, often melancholic lyrics exploring themes of love, loss, and self-reflection.
Theo’s dramatic vocal delivery is a hallmark of their music, imbuing their songs with a sense of urgency and sincerity. Hurts’ compositions balance classical pop structures with a minimalist, sophisticated approach. Their tracks are distinguished by sharp beats, lush string arrangements, and meticulous production, embodying their signature style.
Over the years, Hurts have continued to evolve. Albums such as Surrender (2015), Desire (2017), and Faith (2020) have all received acclaim, showcasing their versatility and commitment to pushing musical boundaries.
Their lyrics often delve into the human experience—love, despair, hope, and resilience—expressed with a rare authenticity that sets them apart in the pop world.
In the 21st century, Hurts are widely regarded as one of the most popular British bands, not just in the UK but internationally. Their music resonates deeply with fans, blending modern electronic production with timeless emotional themes. For Manchester, Hurts represent yet another chapter in the city’s storied musical legacy. With their innovative sound and heartfelt storytelling, they have secured their place as one of the city’s most beloved acts.
