They have been recording since 1997 but this year Idlewild became an unsigned band when their label Sanctuary went into administration. They decided to fund their new album by asking fans to pre-order it, and those who did received their copies back in June.  

Post Electric Blues is a variety of folk, rock and pop, with the band sounding refreshed and their most comfortable since The Remote Part in 2002. It is a mix of Loch side sing-alongs and bigger, louder songs that should go down pretty well when they head out on tour again.

While their obvious influences from bands like REM are still there, the folk-rock cocktail of this album brings a sound that could only belong to them.

The song: (The Night Will) Bring You Back To Life features vocals from both Roddy Woomble and Rod Jones, and is very typical of Woomble’s solo album style, however it seems to be a duet which sees the musicians equally content in their production of happy indie folk.

The tone of the album is very hopeful, particularly on the track Younger Than America, which has melodic keyboard pieces reinforced by the enchanting guest vocals from Irish folk singer Heidi Talbot.

Idlewild have always been a band that has worked hard for their fans, and since their last studio album in 2006 they have had numerous gigs in special venues, such as the album-a-night at King Tuts last Christmas.

This is a Scottish band we can all be proud of, and there is a lot to look forward to as they embark upon their latest tour.

Post Electric Blues went on general release on Monday October 5.

The band

Roddy Woomble: vocals

Rod Jones: guitar, backing vocals and keyboard

Allan Stewart: guitar

Gareth Russell: bass

Colin Newton: drums

Track Listing