Based in Portland, Oregon in the US, the Decemberists have been turning out quality folk-styled indie pop since their debut EP Five Songs was self-released in 2001.

Much of the distinctiveness of the Decemberists’ sound comes from the literary and poetic style of singer/songwriter Colin Meloy. Songs range from epic storytelling ballads with heroic, historical or romantic themes to bouncy pop employing a wide range of instruments.

The latest album The Crane Wife was released in October 2006, and is their first with a major label (Capitol). This work is a diverse mix of experiments with rockier styles, the pared-back acoustic folk of earlier years and more polished chart-friendly pop.

Below are two tracks to sample; Shiny, from the Five Songs EP (2001, re-issued by Hush Records in 2003), and Sons and Daughters, from The Crane Wife (2006).

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The Decemberists - Shiny
The Decemberists - Sons and Daughters