The 286

The 286

The 286 are a rock and roll orchestra from south east London, formed in late 2009. They begin as a seven-piece group based in London, and their name comes from the bus route that links the members together.

Style and sound

The band plays a mix of indie rock and classical music, combining rock riffs with cellos and violins. Their sound is described as a blend of Beatles-style melody and Beethoven-like classical influence, and they are associated with the phrase “Baroque & Roll”. Their approach centres on cello-led arrangements and a broader orchestral style built around strings and keyboards.

Formation and personnel

The group starts with Spencer Hannabuss on guitar and vocals and Nathan Persad on drums and vocals. By early 2010, Liv McLennan and Alex Jackman join on cello, Harry Perry on bass, Ash Carruthers on keyboards, and Adaq Khan, completing the line-up. Other listed members include Spencer on vocals and guitars, Tom on vocals and drums, Nahum on violin and arrangement, Romain and Coco on cello and arrangement, Raf on keyboards, and James on bass.

Reception

The 286 are described as having reinvented the cello in a contemporary rock context, and as creating a new hybrid style that combines classical instrumentation with indie and rock elements.