The Hours are a band formed in 2004 in London by Antony Genn and Martin Slattery. Antony Genn had previously played with the bands Elastica and Pulp, and also worked as a producer, including producing sessions for the electronic act UNKLE.

Martin Slattery is an established pianist and keyboard player, who had previously toured with Shaun Ryder’s group Black Grape. Both Antony and Martin also have worked with Joe Strummer as a part the group The Mescaleros.

The band is managed by Jeanette Lee, who runs Rough Trade with Geoff Travis and former Pulp bassist Steve Mackey. The artwork for the band, including the skull image was created by British artist Damien Hirst for his "For The Love Of God" Collection..

They have received support from Radio One DJ Zane Lowe, and from Jarvis Cocker who said "They understand what music is for – it's for human beings to communicate with other human beings. It's that simple, it's that important. Let them into your life. You won't regret it".

Their single "Ali in the Jungle" is featured in the EA Sports FIFA 08 football game. "People Say" has twice been used in the opening scenes of British soap opera Hollyoaks.

Their first album Narcissus Road was released in 2007. And led to popular singles such as Ali In The Jungle and Back When You Were Good.

Their second album, entitled See the Light, was released on 20th April 2009. It was preceded by the single Big Black Hole on the 6th April.

In 2009 the band supported Kasabian as well as U2 on their 360 Tour playing in Zagreb, Glasgow, London Wembley Stadium and Cardiff Millennium Stadium.