Dutch rockers Racoon aim to repeat success in U.S.

This trip is the band’s second to the U.S.

By GUY D’ASTOLFO

VINDICATOR ENTERTAINMENT WRITER

Racoon — the band, not the furry critter — might be the Netherlands’ top export. At least they’ve got their government’s support.

The four-piece act’s new album “Another Day” went platinum in the Netherlands, and struck a chord throughout Europe. So the government sent the band to the States, and picked up the tab.

Of course, in the Netherlands, platinum status is a mere 80,000 units sold (Racoon’s total now stands at 130,000). And the band doesn’t have a blank check — the government wants all expenses to be itemized.

But can you imagine the American government bankrolling a rock band’s European tour?

The Netherlands sees it as a rare chance to spread one of their cultural products.

“It is a bit of an opportunity,” said Racoon bass player Stefan de Kroon in a phone interview from San Francisco, where the band kicked off its U.S. tour Nov. 30. “Not too many bands from Holland make it here.”

Reaching ears in musically fragmented America requires a ground assault. So it doesn’t hurt that Racoon is opening for indie darlings the Lemonheads on its 19-city cross-country tour.

“Musically, it’s definitely a good pairing,” said de Kroon, who noted that he and his bandmates are long-time fans of the Lemonheads. Racoon is getting 45 minutes of stage time each show, said de Kroon — more than enough to demonstrate what they are about.

Racoon actually played on a bill with the Lemonheads, and its visionary leader Evan Dando, about five years ago in the Netherlands. “[Dando] probably doesn’t remember it,” said de Kroon.

Although Racoon has three albums under its belt, it is focusing on the new one during the tour, said de Kroon.

“Another Day,” which was released in the United States in October, is tuneful and intelligent pop with sensitive and cynical lyrics. It leans toward the acoustic side, possessing the wistful charm of early Barenaked Ladies.

This is actually the second time Racoon has come to the United States. The band — which also includes lead singer Bart van der Weide, guitarist Dennis Huige and drummer Paul Bukkens — played at the South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas, in 2006.