Horse Feathers are among many staple indie bands that have stemmed from the Pacific Northwest: Fleet Foxes, Band of Horses, Youth Lagoon, Laura Veirs, and so many more.

There must be something in that crisp mountain air that breeds chilling harmonies and thoughtful lyrics, as lead vocalist Justin Ringle croons with his distinctively high and sweet-as-honey voice, backed by ethereal and rich string compositions.

With five albums under their belt, Horse Feathers have expanded their sound with their latest release, Appreciation, where they experimented with upbeat tracks, heavy percussion, and a unique take on R&B. Although taking risks with their new sounds, Horse Feathers makes sure to incorporate tracks to honor their loyal fanbase. Veteran fans will take comfort in songs like “Born In Love,” “Faultline Wail,” and “On the Rise” that capitalize on those comforting Horse Feathers staples such as Ringle’s lingering high notes and the marriage of numerous simultaneous string instruments.

Appreciation expands Horse Feathers’s sound into a wider and more inclusive genre, creating an album that any lover of fine and well-crafted music will be taken with.