Fruit Bats is an acclaimed American indie rock band founded in 1997 by singer-songwriter Eric D. Johnson in Chicago, Illinois. Initially a solo project, Johnson’s creative vision led to the release of homemade cassettes that caught the attention of the experimental folk group Califone, resulting in the release of the band’s debut album, “Echolocation,” in 2001. This marked the beginning of a fruitful career, with Fruit Bats quickly gaining recognition for their engaging live performances and unique sound, often touring alongside notable acts like Modest Mouse and The Shins.

In 2002, Fruit Bats signed with Sub Pop Records, releasing their breakthrough album, “Mouthfuls,” in 2003. This album featured the signature track “When U Love Somebody,” which has been covered by various artists and featured in films, solidifying the band’s place in the indie music scene. Johnson’s tenure with The Shins from 2006 to 2010 further enriched his musical style, leading to the critically acclaimed “The Ruminant Band” in 2009, which showcased a more guitar-heavy sound and received positive reviews from major music publications.

After a brief hiatus, Johnson revived Fruit Bats in 2015, releasing “Absolute Loser” in 2016, which was celebrated for its catchy single “Humbug Mountain Song.” The band’s evolution continued with their signing to Merge Records in 2018, leading to the release of “Gold Past Life” in 2019, which featured several streaming hits and was praised for its lyrical depth.

Most recently, Fruit Bats released “The Pet Parade” in 2021, which was produced during the pandemic and highlighted Johnson’s adaptability and creativity. The band has continued to tour extensively, captivating audiences with their rich musical history and innovative sound, making them a beloved fixture in the indie rock landscape.