Combining folk-rock inspirations and alternative rock sways, Okkervil River create a particular visionary sound, strongly founded on dark and profound lyrics and on chaotic visions of patterned sound compounds. Okkervil River began as a mutual project of Will Robison Sheff (vocals, guitar) and Seth Warren (drums) when both were still in high school in Meriden, NH. After several years and multiple life experiences, at the end of the '90s the duo eventually decided to reassemble the band, by then with an extended lineup, after they had both relocated to Austin, TX. Following the addition of Zachary Thomas (vocals, bass), Jonathan Meiburg (vocals, banjo), and Mark Pedini (drums), Okkervil River reappeared. In 1998, the group offered its first and self-released disc, the EP Bedroom, followed a year later by Stars Too Small to Use, the band's debut album.

Combining folk-rock inspirations and alternative rock sways, Okkervil River create a particular visionary sound, strongly founded on dark and profound lyrics and on chaotic visions of patterned sound compounds. Okkervil River began as a mutual project of Will Robison Sheff (vocals, guitar) and Seth Warren (drums) when both were still in high school in Meriden, NH. After several years and multiple life experiences, at the end of the '90s the duo eventually decided to reassemble the band, by then with an extended lineup, after they had both relocated to Austin, TX. Following the addition of Zachary Thomas (vocals, bass), Jonathan Meiburg (vocals, banjo), and Mark Pedini (drums), Okkervil River reappeared. In 1998, the group offered its first and self-released disc, the EP Bedroom, followed a year later by Stars Too Small to Use, the band's debut album. During the succeeding years, the band regularly played live on numerous occasions, including an appearance at the South by Southwest festival in 2000. Don't Fall in Love with Everyone You See, the group's second album, showed up in 2002, followed by Down the River of Golden Dreams in 2003, reaffirming the band's cult all over the Texas music scene. The band found success outside of its home state with 2005's Black Sheep Boy and Black Sheep Boy Appendix EP, with 2007's excellent Stage Names and its 2008 sequel/companion piece, Stand Ins, widening the playing field even more. ~ Mario Mesquita Borges, All Music Guide