For the consistent quality of their output over a 30 year career, the huge variety of styles they dabbled in, and the number of very important artists they've influenced, for me it's hard to look past R.E.M.
"Band" conjures up live performances to me. "Group" seems a bit more album-centric. Objectively, The Rolling Stones as a band. And Beatles as a group.
As a child of the 50's and 60's I've got to say the Beatles, they took 50's rock and roll to another level then took off at a tangent and started experimenting, along with George Martin, by introducing different instruments into the mix and then experimenting with different recording techniques leading to, the then, ground breaking Sg. Peppers. Honourable mention to the Stones for longevity and introducing me to the blues and a whole new world of music. But then BANG, I heard Led Zep, what can I say totally amazing, I couldn't believe they had come out of the Yardbirds, who along wirh my mates we opened for at the Civic . So totally different, there isn't a week goes by that I don't listen at least a couple of tracks of this increible band. Special mention to Pink Floyd and Black Sabbath, my tastes are wide and ranging and I could mention many more of different genres like the Jam, Clash, Oasis etc.
Sheffield band. Very cult following, precursor to the Arctic Monkeys, but much better, give them a go!
Absolutely love ABBA. Genuinely talented and I wish they weren’t peoples guilty pleasure, just their pleasure!
Usual go to answer for these threads is Genesis, multi changes in direction over the years but still quality, recently been listening to Roxy Music again, forgot what an influential and pioneering band they were
The Stone Roses - shone brightly and then died - but the light was amazing. Special mention for Queen - by some distance the worst band ever to inhibit the planet. Dreadful Walks slowly away.
I saw these at Sheffield City hall - early/mid nineties I think. Ooh Gerry Taggert was bouncing around to the music. I believe he may have been drinking.
For our older readers (and it is even old for me), Alexander's Rag Time Band. Apparently they are the best band in the land.
Beatles, Stones, Pink Floyd! I also like the Moody Blues, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath & Genesis! (I’m old!)