Currently, the band is signed to Sub Pop records in the United States. They are managed by Zeitgeist Artists Management Company, which is based in San Francisco. The band is also signed to a record label for the UK and Europe, called Heavenly Recordings.
History:
The band was formed after six musicians met while playing a series of open mic nights at a local pub in Seattle. Interestingly all of them had just moved, or returned to Seattle, and did not really know each other. Josiah Johnson had moved from Southern California to Seattle, while Jonathan Russell had come from Richmond, Virginia. Charity Rose had then come back after studying abroad in Paris, while Tyler Williams was based in Richmond, and moved to Seattle after hearing an early demo of the band. The last member, Chris Zasche was the bar tender at the pub they used to play in.
The six members began playing together with Johnson on vocals and guitar, Russel on vocals and guitar, Charity Rose on violin and vocals, Zasche on bass, Hensley on piano/keyboards and Williams on drums.
Success:
The band started recording songs for their debut album in early 2010. Most of the songs were influenced by their live shows and the band moved into the Litho Studio in Seattle and recorded their album. In a few weeks time, they were selling burned copies of their album in handmade denim sleeves at the local shows they played at.
The response they received was very positive, and the band started gathering an ever increasing following. Record labels started taking notice and amidst a large number of offers from various labels, the band decided to sign with Sub Pop records. Their album was re-mastered and re-released in CD format by the label, and the song, Sounds like Hallelujah was re-recorded, while a live version of their famous Rivers and Roads was added.
Following the success of the album, the band undertook an extensive tour of North America and Europe and spent most of 2010 and 2011 on the road. The tours ensured they reached a wider audience, and the band’s popularity increased multifold.
Let’s Be Still:
On October 15th, 2013, the band released their follow up album, “Let’s Be Still”. Taking a more colorful and eclectic approach, the album showcases the bands wonderful chemistry, and is the work of a well-rounded ensemble. Featuring hot songs like Shake, Homecoming Heroes and Summertime, the album has a little bit of something for everyone.
Since the album has just been released, and the band plans on touring immediately, The Head and The Heart tickets are fast selling out, so check out the tour dates and catch one of the most impressive indie band live in action.