Horse Feathers

Horse Feathers released their debut album, Words Are Dead, in September 2006 on the Lucky Madison label, introducing their signature intricate arrangements and emotive storytelling. The project originated from demos by singer-songwriter Justin Ringle, which garnered the attention of multi-instrumentalist Peter Broderick in 2005, leading to their initial collaboration. Following the album’s release, Peter’s sister, Heather Broderick, joined the band on cello later in 2006, expanding their sonic palette. By 2007, Horse Feathers had evolved into a dynamic collective, featuring a rotating group of instrumentalists who complemented Ringle’s primary guitar and vocal contributions, solidifying their unique indie folk identity.

The band continued its creative momentum, with Ringle and the Broderick siblings recording their second album, House With No Home, in late 2007 and early 2008. This critically anticipated album was released by Kill Rock Stars in spring 2008. Following its release, Peter Broderick departed to pursue other musical endeavors, leading to new instrumentalists joining the ensemble; Nathan Crockett assumed violin duties, and cellist Catherine Odell joined the lineup after Heather Broderick’s departure. In early 2009, Sam Cooper became a multi-instrumentalist member, solidifying a core four-piece formation.

The band’s sixth album, Appreciation, further showcased this expanded sound, featuring the new rhythm section of J. Tom Hnatow and Robby Cosenza. Released on May 4, 2018, through Kill Rock Stars, Appreciation was preceded by the single ‘Without Applause,’ which was exclusively debuted by NPR on March 2, 2018.