Clean Bandit
British electronic music group known for fusing classical instrumentation with contemporary dance beats and pop sensibilities.
Formed at Cambridge University in 2008, Clean Bandit gained global recognition with their Grammy-winning single 'Rather Be'. The group pioneered a signature style blending string arrangements with electronic production, collaborating with vocalists like Jess Glynne, Zara Larsson, and Demi Lovato across multi-platinum hits.
- The name 'Clean Bandit' derives from a Russian slang phrase (чистый бандит) meaning 'complete bastard', suggested by a friend of founding member Grace Chatto.
- Violinist Neil Amin-Smith, a founding member, abruptly left in 2016 mid-tour to pursue classical music, later revealing struggles with the band's creative direction.
- Drummer Luke Patterson is the brother of band co-founder Jack Patterson, joining officially in 2016 after years of informal collaboration.
- Their breakthrough hit 'Rather Be' won a 2015 Grammy for Best Dance Recording and topped charts in over 20 countries.
- Cellist Grace Chatto and Jack Patterson dated for years before and during the band's early success; their romantic split was amicably navigated within the group.