The Decemberists

The Decemberists formed in Portland, Oregon in 2000 around singer and guitarist Colin Meloy. Their early sound drew from Meloy's interest in classical piano and Celtic folk, with guitarist Chris Funk and bassist Nate Query adding rock and Americana elements. Their debut album 'Castaways and Cutouts' came out in 2002, but it was their third album 'The Crane Wife' in 2006 that brought wider attention, particularly with songs like 'Here I Dreamt I Was An Architect' and 'The Mariner's Revenge Song'.

Meloy's lyrics often work like short stories or historical vignettes, whether in the sea shanty narrative of 'The Mariner's Revenge Song' or the folk ballad 'We Both Go Down Together.' The band's arrangements can be intricate, weaving accordion, keyboards, and acoustic guitars into what sometimes feels like a small theater production. They've explored concept albums like 'The Hazards of Love' and more straightforward rock on 'The King Is Dead,' which includes the track 'Down By The Water.'

Alongside Meloy, the core lineup includes Chris Funk on guitar, Jenny Conlee-Drizos on accordion and keyboards, Nate Query on bass, and John Moen on drums. They've maintained a consistent presence in indie folk and rock, known for literate songwriting and a sound that doesn't quite fit any single genre. Songs like 'Rox In The Box' and 'Sons & Daughters' show their range from driving folk-rock to anthemic, sing-along finishes.