There's no shortage of speculation as to the origin of Green Day [ tickets ]'s moniker, but the theories range from an obscure sign in the sci-fi movie "Soylent Green" to an episode of "Sesame Street." Most folks just assume it refers to smoking ganja.

Although often compared to first-wave punk bands like Buzzcocks [ tickets ], The Ramones [ tickets ], The Clash [ tickets ] and The Sex Pistols [ tickets ], the members of Green Day have cited the music of Queen [ tickets ], Husker Du [ tickets ] and The Who [ tickets ] as influences. The resulting signature sound has evolved since the band formed in 1987, but still highlights the distinct vocals of frontman Billie Joe Armstrong, distorted guitar, fast paced drums, and a bass sound that leans towards treble.

Due out next month, the band's eighth studio set, “21st Century Breakdown”, will serve to get fans geared up for a major tour on the horizon. LiveDaily's Tim Mosenfelder caught Green Day in Fresno, CA, in 2005 during their "American Idiot" tour, and here are some of his photos.