It would hardly be fair to say The Parlotones are new. The four-piece band from Johannesburg, South Africa (Kahn Morbee vocals/guitar, Glenn Hodgson bass, piano/backing vocals, Paul Hodgson guitar, Neil Pauw drums), formed in 1998 and has enjoyed success in its native country for years, selling more records in its homeland than Coldplay, The Killers and Oasis combined. During the past couple of years The Parlotones were selected to perform at South Africa’s 2009 presidential inauguration, Africa Day and Live Earth as the band continues to attract fans and gain recognition on a global scale.

But the above description only hints at the band’s popularity. The Parlotones won two awards at the International Song Contest. No easy accomplishment when you consider the judging panel included Tom Waits, Robert Smith and Rob Thomas.

Other achievements include several MK Awards, including honors for best video, best animation and best serenades. The band also received two noms in the MTV Africa 2008 awards and were the best music act in the 2008 People’s Choice Awards.

Tour-wise, the band has a short run of U.S. dates slotted for September, including Washington at DC 9 Sept. 14; Philadelphia at the M Room Sept. 15; New York at Mercury Lounge Sept. 17; Hoboken at Maxwell’s Sept. 18 and Chicago at Schubas Tavern Sept. 20. The Parlotones also have a one-off in Canada scheduled for Toronto at Lee’s Palace Sept. 19.

The band heads to Europe in late September, playing Amsterdam’s Melkweg Sept. 22 followed by dates throughout the Netherlands before heading to France, Germany and Italy and the United Kingdom.

Wanna know more? Just click here for The Parlotones’ official website.