The Wombats, a Liverpool indie band famous for hits like “Leaving For New York” and “Let’s Dance To Joy Division,” have toned down their tour lifestyle compared to their wilder past. Lead singer Matthew ‘Murph’ Murphy, along with bandmates Dan Haggis and Tord Øverland Knudsen, now opt for a healthier approach while on the road, requesting organic kombucha with flavors like lemon, ginger, or turmeric on their rider.
Reflecting on their past wild nights, Dan shared stories of partying harder than rock legends Motörhead, with one tour being a five-day non-stop party at South by Southwest. The band even recalled an incident where rapper Ice Cube got kicked out of a hotel party they were attending.
The Wombats recently released their sixth studio album, “Oh! The Ocean,” and embarked on their biggest UK Arena Tour, starting in Nottingham and heading to London’s O2 Arena. The band now focuses on self-care, prioritizing sleep, fitness, and relaxation activities while on tour. Murph mentioned giving up alcohol for over two years due to past experiences.
With over 20 years of experience, The Wombats look up to bands like The Rolling Stones for longevity inspiration. The band expressed their disapproval of a recent incident involving a US influencer snatching a baby wombat in Australia, emphasizing the importance of respecting wildlife and natural environments.
The UK tour includes stops in London, Cardiff, Manchester, Hull, Glasgow, and Leeds before concluding in Liverpool on June 19. The band aims to maintain their energy and passion for music, taking cues from legends like Mick Jagger for a lasting impact in the industry.