As most bands go, Idlewild was formed out of a mutual admiration for certain artists. The guys met at an Edinburgh party in 1995 and after discovering a shared passion for distinctly American bands like Sonic Youth, Black Flag, Nirvana, and R.E.M, Idlewild was born.

Taking their name from an Anne of Green Gables reference to a quiet meeting place, Idlewild are anything but what the name implies. Their gigs are infamous for being chaotic and, at times, harmful to the bandmates. According to lead singer Roddy Woomble, Idlewild likes to “go completely mad” and has the cuts and bruises to prove it.

The U.S. tour venture comes a few months after the release of their latest disc, 100 Broken Windows. Although the album was just released in the States, it’s been available in Europe for over one year. Consequently, the band is already back in the studio between concert dates, to work on a new record.