Racoons were formed in 2008 by founding members Matthew Lyall and Murray Mckenzie.

The duo were then joined by Jeff Mitchelmore and James Alexander Bodman, former members of indie pop band The Paper Cranes.

[1] In June 2009 the band embarked on a national tour with The Von Bondies across Canada as well as playing the Rifflandia,[2] Sled Island, Olio,[citation needed] Deraylor[3] and Big Time Out[4] festivals.

[citation needed] The band are co-managed by Nick Blasko (Tegan and Sara, Buck 65) and Coral Osborne (The Blue Violets).

[citation needed] In September 2009, the song Room To Operate was featured in an episode of The Hills.