Flats formed in February 2010, and are made up of Craig E. Pierce (Bass), Daniel Devine (Vocals), Paul Angeles (Guitar) and Samir Eskanda (Drums). Their original guitarist Luke Tristram was replaced by Djan in April 2011. They made their live debut in March 2010. Flats have stated that their influences include Crass, Chron Gen, Anthrax and Hellhammer
They released two EPs on 7" vinyl in 2010; Flats EP (co-produced by Klaxons' Jamie Reynolds), and Flats EP2 through their own label Sweat Shop Records in conjunction with Loog. Their single "Never Again" was released through Sweat Shop Records and One Little Indian in March 2011 on 7" and download.
Flats have become renowned for their live shows that often clock in at less than 15 minutes. In 2010 they supported The Horrors, Klaxons and played at the 1234 festival and Offset Festival, as well as being the opening band on that year's NME Radar tour with The Joy Formidable and Chapel Club. In 2011 they were Morrissey's main support band for the UK leg of his European tour, as well as supporting the US sludge metal band Eyehategod and performing at Sonisphere festival at Knebworth House.