However, the band’s modest goals were soon far exceeded as the British underground went wild over their self-pressed debut, Tigermilk. Subsequent releases on the Jeepster label earned them a worldwide following and a deal with Matador Records.

Ambitious tours are now the norm for the band, and their latest sees them venturing across Europe. The schedule so far contains stops in nine countries, including extensive runs in Spain and Germany. More dates – specifically in France – are promised on the band’s official Web site.

Following the Euro excursion, they’ve got a Western U.S. leg lined up for April and May, including a set at the Coachella Festival May 2.

The boys and girls of Belle released their sixth album, Catastrophe Waitress, last October. The record is the band’s first to feature new bassist Bobby Kildea, and their first without departed singer/cellist Isobel Campbell, whose solo debut was – coincidentally or not – released the same day.

A retrospective DVD, titled “Fans Only,” was released in January, featuring videos, live footage, interviews, two documentaries and more.